Matthew 2

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. II.—How deep was the debasement, and early the sufferings, of our Redeemer! and yet attended with the honours of an extraordinary star directed to him; the devout visit of the wise men; and the repeated directions of God concerning him. How early the Gentiles begin their gathering to Shiloh! and often they, who live farthest from the means of grace, are first converted. Even in extraordinary appearances of nature, we ought to inquire after God’s mind and will: and, if we be earnestly desirous to know and find Christ, neither pains nor perils will hinder us. Nothing produces so great an hatred of Christ and his kingdom as ignorance of their nature and design. And it is awful when repeated directions concerning him do but make men the more deceitful and desperately murderous. Adorable is the providence of God, which disappoints the devices of his crafty, powerful, and cruel, enemies, and turns them into means or occasions of verifying his predictions and executing his purposes. He takes delight to encourage and direct young converts, who are ready humbly to give to Jesus themselves and all that they have. And the more nearly any are connected with Christ, the more divine protection and direction they may expect; and the more readily and cheerfully must God be obeyed. Into what monsters of wickedness has sin transformed some men! And wicked rulers will never want wicked instruments to act by. Children, life, lands, and all other created enjoyments, are certain sorrows, but very uncertain comforts. Let my care be to have God as my portion, and to live with him as my Father and companion, go where I will