“They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.” (Matthew 2:11, NLT)
Scripture text
Matthew 2:1–23
Sermon ideas: Will the real king please stand up?
The elaborate presidential inauguration ceremonies that take place every four years are about as close as we get in our democracy to crowning a king.
There are lots of kings in the story told in Matthew 2:1–23. The wise ones, or kings, from the East. King Herod (and later his sonArchelaus).And, of course, the young child Jesus. Interestingly, King Herod and the kings from the East all recognized Jesus’ identity as king, but they responded very differently.
How will we respond to Jesus today? If we recognize Jesus as king, we will keep the rule of today’s authorities (political and economic leaders) in proper perspective.We will also follow the upside-down reign modeled by Jesus, who led as a servant, rather than by using coercion. In fact, Isaiah names him the Prince of Peace (9:6). In contrast, King Herod misuses his authority and resorts to violence to protect his own interests.
At this time of Epiphany and as we inaugurate a new leader for our country, it is a good time to reaffirm our own identity as “little Christs” (Christians), who seek to be like him in word and in action.
Songs and hymns
We three kings
Arise, your light is come (Sing the Story 30)
He came down (Sing the Journey 31)
The servant king
Responsive Reading
Leader: Wise ones saw he would be a king, and brought him gold.
Congregation: Grant us wisdom to recognize Jesus’ reign in our world.
Leader: Wise ones saw he would be a priest, and brought him frankincense.
Congregation: Grant us humility as we speak God’s message to the world.
Leader: Wise ones saw he would be a suffering servant, and brought him myrrh.
Congregation: Grant us courage to suffer as he did.
All: Reign among us. Speak through us. Lead us into servanthood. Amen.
Prayer of Intercession, based on Matthew 2:13–18
Jesus, we remember how your family fled to Egypt when you were a child.
We pray for children and families everywhere, and for all those who must flee their homeland.
(pause for silent prayer)
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We remember the power of King Herod to affect the lives of those around him.
We pray for governing authorities at all levels-local, state and national. (pause)
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We remember the women of Bethlehem, mourning the deaths of their infant sons.
We pray for those who grieve and for all those who suffer violence. (pause)
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.Amen.
