As such God's people long for the return of the King (see Revelation 22:20)! We anticipate his return for a slew of reasons. One reason why we long for the 2nd Coming of Christ is that we know it will usher in a kingdom of righteousness and will eliminate brutal tyranny!
In the gospel of Luke we're briefly introduced to King Herod the (not so) Great (Luke 1:5). Herod's bloody reign lasted from 37 BC to 4 BC. As a Roman appointed ruler Herod's diabolical deeds were somewhat protected so long as he "kept the peace." As one studies history you find that Herod was a power-hungry, self-serving, brutal yet brilliant, political figure with an insatiable blood lust!
This shrewd snake was so paranoid that he murdered every potential threat and rival (real and imaginary), including his own wife and three sons. His most infamous act of brutality however was his abortion-esq edict to murder every innocent son of Abraham under the age of two during the early years of the Christ child (Jesus). Matthew 2 recounts this horrific act of selfishness and self-preservation.
 |
| Tyrants in History |
In view of history, past and present, may we continue to pray (Matt. 6:9-10) and long for the Kingdom of God on earth (see Revelation 19-20). Psalm 2 reminds us of what is yet to come and tells us how we should respond. Repent; Believe; Worship; and never Lose Heart- for the King of kings shall one day return. In that day, he will right every wrong and will "smash to pieces" every power-hungry tyrant. As we enter into Advent season let us sing "Joy to the World" with renewed vigor and passion. And may we continue to pray with the disciples and early church, "Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!" "Marantha! Come quickly Lord Jesus, Come!"
PSALM 2- The Reign of the Lord’s Anointed.
1 Why are the nations in an uproar
And the peoples devising a vain thing?
2 The kings of the earth take their stand
And the rulers take counsel together
Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,
3 “Let us tear their fetters apart
And cast away their cords from us!”
4 He who sits in the heavens laughs,
The Lord scoffs at them.
5 Then He will speak to them in His anger
And terrify them in His fury, saying,
6 “But as for Me, I have installed My King
Upon Zion, My holy mountain.”
7 “I will surely tell of the decree of the Lord:
He said to Me, ‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
8 ‘Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance,
And the very ends of the earth as Your possession.
9 ‘You shall break them with a rod of iron,
You shall shatter them like earthenware.’ ”
10 Now therefore, O kings, show discernment;
Take warning, O judges of the earth.
11 Worship the Lord with reverence
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Do homage to the Son, that He not become angry, and you perish in the way,
For His wrath may soon be kindled.
How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!
