Thread by @cuatronelson

Was the coming of Jesus into the world good? Absolutely.

Yet, there also was tremendous tragedy accompanying his arrival. Herod murdered children under 2 in Bethlehem trying to kill Jesus (Matt. 2:16).

Commentator Daniel Doriani notes,

“Bethlehem and its environs had a modest population, so that perhaps no more than twenty boys were slain. Still, it was a great tragedy for those families and that town.”

In one sense it’s *because* Jesus entered the world that led to the murder of these children.

*Because* Jesus came, Herod ordered this horrendous deed that affected many families. Herod is to blame of course. But it doesn’t take away this point:

Experientially, I’ve seen people come to Christ and the physical aspects of their lives doesn’t get better at all.

Things actually get worse. This is our paradoxical reality. Sometimes *because of* following Jesus, trials increase.

But Christ did not come to save us from the physical *in this age*. Death, suffering, sorrow, and sin all remain a reality ——> for now.

But because Christ came, these things do not have the final say for His people. Death is not the end. Suffering leads to glory. Sorrow will be turned to joy. And sin will ultimately be vanquished.

Because of Christ their is hope.

Christmas has never been absent of sorrow. And maybe ur Christmas this year is filled w/ pain. But if u are in Christ know that His blessings will flow like a mighty flood far as the curse is found. Christmas points us to the reality that there is both a cross & a resurrection.

The Man of Sorrows returns the King of Glory. He will wipe every tear from our eye. Lift up your heads. Set your eyes on Him.

#ChristisKing.