Israel had not had a prophet in 400 years, since Malachi. Though God had been moving in their midst throughout this time in wars and miracles (i.e. Maccabean Revolt and Hanukah), the people began to be dismayed with their prospects of seeing the Messiah. They were ruled by an oppressive Roman government and their religion had become no more then a list of rules and traditions that needed to be kept. Their desires to see God change their country prevented them from seeing that God had greater things yet to come.
Matthew is not the earliest gospel, but it is the first written for a specific audience. Mark, the earliest gospel, is more of a collection of vignettes of Jesus’ life, but Matthew intended for his gospel to be read by those who were Jewish. Matthew wants to introduce his audience to the long awaited Messiah by connecting him to the history of the Israel. The people were anticipating a king, a ruler, a conqueror, but the Messiah did not come as expected. He had a greater plan.
As you begin this year, know that God has greater things yet to come for you. As good as life can be with your family, career and marriage, God wants to make it greater. If you believe that your greatest days are behind you then be encouraged that greater things are yet to come. He is not done yet with your family, career, or marriage. Be encouraged that God’s plan for you will not be what you are anticipating, but it will be greater then you can ever imagine.
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