Scripture: Luke 23:8-12
When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard about him, he hoped to see him perform a sign of some sort. He plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing him. Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Dressing him in an elegant robe, they sent him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends—before this they had been enemies.
Observation:
Herod was excited about seeing Jesus because he wanted to see a sign. But when Jesus did not meet his expectations, Herod quickly turned against Him. Herod began ridiculing Jesus and mocking Him.
Application:
When Jesus doesn't meet our expectations we have to be careful not to fall into the same trap that Herod did. Because he wanted to see a miracle, and didn't get one, he rejected Jesus. However Herod missed what Jesus was doing for him and everyone else, that is die for our sins. If we are asking for a miracle, like healing from disease, more money or other needs, we shouldn't miss Jesus' most important gift of salvation.
Prayer:
Lord God, help me to appreciate Your gift of mercy through Jesus Christ even when my prayers are not answered the way I expect so that I will never reject You, Amen.