October 24 devotion - Herod's Fate

Acts 12:22-23 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.

            It was a dreadful end to a wicked leader. One moment, Herod Antipas was being lauded as a god by his supporters for a rousing speech, the next he was dying from a painful parasite which was taken to be a punishment from God. He who once was mighty and powerful was debased and diminished because of his vanity and pride. Instead of being hailed as the kingly champion of the people, Herod is remembered as an amoral schemer whose downfall was brought about by his own narcissistic tendencies and delusions of grandeur.

            This all took place at the same time when the fledgling Christian church was beginning to grow substantially. Herod’s influence was waning whereas that of Christ and His followers were increasing rapidly. The bold Galilean, whom Herod interviewed and sent to His death, would now be praised and lauded for centuries to come. Antipas, however, would remain in the past – along with all of his achievements, buildings, and decisions.

            Good leadership is a gift from God and those who are in positions of power – whether in our congregations or communities – should acknowledge God’s presence in their endeavors, accomplishments, and success. To claim those things as self-made is to rob God of His glory, something which Herod Antipas learned way too late.

Point to ponder

What leadership responsibilities have I been given? Do I thank God enough for any of my successes?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, help us to remember that everything belongs to God, especially our own victories and successes, achievements and accomplishments.  Keep us mindful of the many blessings that You grant in order for us to fulfill our dreams. In Your Holy Name, we humbly and thankfully pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you have any questions or comments about today’s message, please send him an email to Traqair@aol.com.

You can also read the church website at www.erinpresbyterian.org.

Today’s image is one of John’s chess drawings called ‘Celtic King.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: King.

Conflict Management - Matthew 12:25

Matthew 12:25           Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.”

            Division and conflict ruin families, businesses, churches, and nations. Whenever two groups are pitted against each other, those who get caught in the middle end up being the real victims. For instance, in a hostile divorce, the children end up emotionally scarred for life. In a church conflict, things are never the same and old wounds get re-opened every time there is a difference of opinion. And among nations, where hostility arises, war usually follows and millions of people are displaced, ruined, and decimated.

            When Christ was challenged by the religious leaders of His day about His healing powers, He knew that they spoke out of envy and were trying to shut down His ministry. He confronted their lies, which negatively impacted the people, in order to set the record straight. He also reminded His critics that in causing a conflict they would end up destroying themselves, especially if they promoted false messages and expressed incorrect assumptions.

            In a divided community, Jesus came to restore God’s Kingdom among them and reunite the people under the influence of the Holy Spirit. He wanted them to embrace a new understanding of God, which would heal their divisions and stop their conflicts. Sadly, however, His words went unheeded because those in control were afraid to give up their power over the people. It was left to His real followers to carry on His message, long after He was gone, and take the Gospel to other nations around the world.

            Perhaps you are in the midst of a conflict. Maybe it’s a family issue, a business concern, or even a global worry for you. Whatever is causing it, seek Christ’s peace first in your heart and then reach across the barrier or the gap that the conflict has created. It may be just the solution both of you are looking for, but you won’t know or realize it until you try.

Points to ponder

What conflicts are currently going on in my life? What is Jesus asking me to do about it?

Prayer:            Lord Jesus, we call You the Prince of Peace and the Healer of the nations. Let Your Holy Spirit come into our present circumstances and help us to remedy any current conflict in our lives. Be with us and bless this day. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

Today’s image is John’s latest Martin Luther King drawing called ‘Tasking the Dream.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: MLK2017.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. The church website can be viewed at www.erinpresbyterian.org.