Jesus, Herod, and Pharaoh

The beginning of Matthew’s gospel features several powerful actors–the Magi from the East, King Herod in Judah, and Pharaoh. In contrast Jesus and his family are powerless. Classic Christianity has reminded us that we, too, are powerless and invited us to adore the baby who was sent to help us. But it can be helpful to see ourselves as powerful and ask where in our world are there holy babies needing help. They are all around us.