From Advent Conspiracy ... "Daily Advent Devotionals, Day 24"

Daily Advent Devotionals, Day 24

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
Isaiah 9:6-7

It’s hard to imagine, in this day of polarity in politics, a government so amazing that we would consider good news the fact that it would never end. Can you picture an earthly kingdom characterized by justice and righteousness – always and forever? It’s a stretch, isn’t it?

When we consider some of the most successful kingdoms throughout the Earth’s history, with the happiest subjects, the fairest laws, the lowest taxes… all have eventually proven flawed by the corruption of power and ambition, weak or greedy leaders, restless, rebellious people or some combination of our universal brokenness.

No matter how good a government may seem for a time, it’s clear that mere humans, even with the best intentions, have never been/will never be able to accomplish this sort of ideal civilization. It’s impossible. Only God could accomplish this.

But look at the good news of this passage: that’s just what God did!

Through the birth of this one babe, this child, God established His Kingdom – overflowing with justice, righteousness and peace with no end, and ruled by the most Wonderful Counselor, the Mightiest God, the Everlasting Father, and Prince of all Peace.

There is one more name for this perfect King, the ruler of this shockingly perfect eternal kingdom. It is “Jesus” and we don’t have to wait for some distant future in which He will reign. No, King Jesus reigns now and forever.

If you are a subject of King Jesus, living in His kingdom and under His authority, you already know the goodness of His reign. If not, you are invited to join Him, to be a part of the beautiful Kingdom where justice, righteousness and peace will never end.

What are you waiting for?

Reflect

If you are a subject of King Jesus, in what ways do you experience His reign every day? Are there areas of your life in which you struggle to submit to His authority? If you have not called Jesus your King, what causes you to hesitate? Ask God to reveal Himself and His Kingdom to you today.

Pray

Jesus,

Thank You for Your government and Kingdom, which has only ever been and will always be for my good. Thank You for inviting me to be a part of Your glorious Kingdom. Help me to submit to Your authority in every part of my life so that I may increasingly experience Your reign of justice, righteousness and peace unending.

I ask in Your name, Jesus, my King. Amen.

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Advent Conspiracy was founded on the radical idea that we can celebrate Christmas humbly, beautifully, and generously. Advent is the story of a wondrous moment when God entered our world to make things right. It is the greatest story ever told and it changes everything — including the way we celebrate Christmas.

Be part of a different story this Christmas, one that celebrates our King and brings hope to a watching world ...

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