Who were the Magi? Contrary to the popular hymn, “We Three Kings,” the Magi were not kings. We do not know for sure who they were, but the most likely theory is that they were Astrologers, or Priests of the Zoroastrian religion in Persia. Herod the “Great” Ruled over Israel as a Roman-approved regional kind from 40-4 bce. Nicknamed “Great,” not because he was a good ruler, but because of the massive building projects he completed, including restoration of the Jerusalem Temple. His paranoia and cruelty were legendary When Herod died in 4 bce, Rome divided his kingdom into three parts and appointed 3 of his sons to rule: Phillip in the south Antipas in the northern area of Galilee, and Archelaus, in Judea (where Bethlehem was located. It is confusing in scripture, because sometimes Herod’s sons were later referred to as Herod, as well. (Herod Antipas for example) REFLECTION QUESTIONS When was a time in your life that you look back and wonder “What if?” What is something you sense God is inviting you to say “yes” to this year?