Fear Doesn't Stop Us Matthew 2:1-12, 16-18

Fear doesn't stop us. This recording is from 04 January 2026, the Sunday closest to Epiphany (the day we celebrate the wise men reaching the holy family and paying homage to Jesus with their worship and precious gifts). On the road to Jesus the wise men are confronted by King Herod. Threatened by any mention of another king, ruler or authority in his earthly realm, Herod hatches a plan to go after the baby Jesus and wipe away the threat - but God has other plans. In dreams, both the wise men and the holy family are lead away and escape his grasp, so Herod does the unthinkable...he orders the elimination of every child born under 2 years of age. It's violent, horrific, offensive and grievous. It's also an ancient and all too familiar story of an earthly ruler/tyrant who will do anything to keep and advance their own agenda without concern for the lives of those who might get in their way. And throughout the ages, God invites us not to fear but to trust Him and press on as his image and light bearers to a world in need of faith, hope and love. Earthly rulers and fear do not have the last word.