Matthew 2, 13-15
Something to read
And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.” When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.”.
King James Version
Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.’ Then Joseph* got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I have called my son.’
New Revised Standard Version
Something to think about
God choosing Palestine some 2000 or so years ago for the birth of Jesus was about as risky as being born a daughter in 21st century India or China. But the danger today does not come from a power-crazed King, but from a child’s own parents.
In many cultures, children are prized. In many other cultures, children are commoditised. And who would want the costs of bringing up a daughter when it is believed to be a son that will bring you future prosperity?
Christian Aid believes that all people are created equal, with inherent dignity and infinite worth. No child should have to face the danger Jesus faced or the lottery of gender discrimination.
Something to do
Wear black today. Every Thursday people across the globe wear black as a personal and public protest against gender-based violence and inequality. It is a symbol of strength and remembrance, standing in solidarity with victims of violence and discrimination and demanding a fairer world for all. See thursdaysinblack.blogspot.com for more information.
Something to pray
Jesus, we stand with you in the darkness of the night, remembering the danger and fear you faced as a child.
Today's contributor is Melanie Smith, a student training for ministry with the United Reformed Church at Westminster College, Cambridge.