Matthew 2:13-23 To Fulfill What the Lord had Spoken

The fulfillment of prophecy is a fascinating and captivating part of Scripture. You can't read the Bible without encountering a phrase like "to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet" or "to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet" or "that what was spoken by the prophet might be fulfilled." The work of the prophet was to speak God's words and those words would come true in due time.

Three prophecies were fulfilled shortly after the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The magi did not return to Herod to give him a report on the new born king. Therefore, Herod took it upon himself to destroy the newborn. He decides to kill every male 2 years old or under. The Lord directs Joseph to flee to Egypt and later on to Nazareth. 

As I meditate on these three prophecies being fulfilled: the fleeing to Egypt, Herod's killing spree, and the return to Nazareth, I am faced with three events of history where human beings made certain decisions. The fulfillment of prophecy brings me face to face with the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of men. How can God determine things before they happen if we are "free" to make choices in life? This is the question that many have pondered throughout history.

For me, I am at peace knowing that God is the Sovereign King of the universe and that all things are subject to his will and power. It gives me peace of mind to know that all the evil we suffer in the world is somehow curbed by the sustaining hand of God. I am comforted with the thought that my decisions, as free as they may be, are not the determining factor of my destiny. My future is in God's hands. I should not be afraid to live the life he has given me. I should not be afraid to see my life come to an end on this earth. Because everything has a purpose whether I understand it or not. Because there is a time for everything whether I like or not. Because everything leads to a certain future whether I believe it or not.

Lord, help me trust you more and more. Create in me a heart that yields to your sovereign power and control. Grant me peace in the midst of turmoil. Grant me comfort in pain. Grant me faith and hope for a better future in you.