Read the Book: July - Septemberনমুনা

## Week 27 #### Matthew 2 #### God’s Promises & Providence Matthew 2 gives a beautiful picture of God’s providence as well as a handful of the fulfillment of prophecies regarding the coming Messiah. Through warnings in dreams, angels, guiding stars, and wise kings, we see God’s protective hand over the early, earthly life of His Son, and His Hand orchestrates an incredibly unlikely series of events. Although odd and chaotic compared to the typical life we assume for an infant, Matthew narrates how the events of this chapter were actually predicted by prophets preceding Jesus by centuries. What is the point of all of those prophecies? Perhaps one of those reasons is to exclaim to the world that this baby boy is, without a doubt, the Messiah who has been long-awaited and highly anticipated. How do the events of Jesus’ life as an infant affect our walks with God today? For me, seeing God’s providential hand protecting Jesus from harm reminds me that God’s providence applies to each of us, as well. I can look back on my life and clearly see ways in which God was protecting me from harm. Furthermore, anytime the New Testament reveals the fulfillment of one Old Testament prophecy, I feel an overwhelming sense of joy and awe that God cares so deeply about those fine details and that He does what He promises. The fulfillment of prophecies through His Son affirms that God truly is in control and He cares intimately for anyone who chooses to call Him “Father.” Family Connection: Set up a short scavenger hunt with clues to reach different parts of the house. Draw a star to find in the last spot. The kids will read the clues and follow them to find the star. The wise men in Matthew 2 did the same thing! They read the scriptures and knew that the star meant the King was born. We can also learn about God’s plan for our lives by reading and studying the scripture! Take some time to read Matthew 2:6 together!