A Different King

“He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”—Luke 1:33 NKJV

Looking at the world, we wonder how many of today’s leaders will still be in power a year from now. In five years? Who will fall, and how will they fall? Some will remain in power for years, others for just months or weeks.

As Gabriel announced to Mary, Jesus, too, was a ruler. But He was different. He would reign, but “of His kingdom there will be no end.” Ever!

History reminds us that the kingdoms of this world all will pass away. But Jesus’ Kingdom is different. It has no end, and He reigns forever.

When Jesus was born, Herod was king of Judea. Like other kings, he expected (and even demanded) that his subjects submit to him. But Jesus is not that kind of king. He does not impose His will or force us to submit to Him. Rather, we must determine on our own to obey Him. Of our own free will, we must declare that He is Lord.

Every day, He gives us choices. He looks for people who will submit their lives to Him, serve Him willingly, seek first His Kingdom, and let Him be their Lord.

Today, remember that Jesus is not just the baby whose birth we celebrate during the Christmas season. He is also your King! You have the privilege of being part of His Kingdom! Serve Him! Worship Him! Declare Him the Lord of your life!

Reflection Question: How are you contributing to Jesus’ Kingdom today?