Out of Egypt I Called My Son
Key Bible Passage:
Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” (Matthew 2:13-15)
Reflect:
As military families, we’re accustomed to holiday travel. Have you ever endured the special challenge of a red-eye with a baby or young toddler?
Mary and Joseph had to make a midnight journey too, but theirs was a flight of fear–escaping a violent and vindictive king willing to kill young children to ensure the command and control of his kingdom.
God provided an extraction plan for Jesus and his family. God literally removed his personnel from a hostile environment and placed them in a secure area. This story is significant for the principles it teaches and the picture it paints.
The principles: God protected his Son and provided an escape. God is in control. He loves his children.
The picture: Christmas is the story of how God sent Jesus to earth to deliver us. According to 1 Peter 2:11, we are “sojourners and exiles” since this world and its values are often contrary to God. Jesus is our extraction plan. He promises to secure us in his everlasting arms.
What hostile environment are you or a loved one facing today? Look to God’s protection.
Respond:
- Watch a movie that inspires you to pray for the next year, such as War Room (2015).
