The Everyday Gospel Christmas DevotionalSample

Jesus, the King of kings who came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many, shows us what his kingdom is like.

When we look at politics, entertainment, sports, or industry, it is clear that our culture is obsessed with greatness. The people who are our heroes have lots of power, stacks of money, piles of achievements, tons of human acclaim, warehouses of possessions, multiple houses, and fleets of luxury vehicles. We love to watch videos that take us into their homes or let us see their amazing cars. We view their yachts and mansions with a little bit of longing in our hearts. We like feats of power, and we look up to people who take control. Our heroes are kingdom builders who have accomplished and acquired much, and who have crowds of people around them to serve their purposes. We often watch the coronation of another business leader, entertainment star, sports champion, or national king and silently think, “If only.”

But the King of kings is unlike any earthly king. The Lord Creator and sovereign of the universe did not invade the earth he created so that he could set up an earthly kingdom and be served. No, his coming, his life, and his death displayed ultimate humble, self-sacrificing service. What was Jesus’ experience on earth? An inauspicious birth and poverty of life. Mocking and rejection. An unjust and violent arrest and trial. Horrific suffering on the cross. Jesus poured out his life—not for his own power and earthly fame, but for the eternal salvation of all who put their trust in him. If this is the way of the King, then why would we think that the call and culture of his kingdom would be any different?

In Matthew 20 we find the mother of the sons of Zebedee asking Jesus to secure a special place of honor for her sons in his kingdom. Here is Jesus’ response:

“You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matt. 20:22–28)

It is vital to understand that God’s kingdom is an upside-down kingdom, where the path to greatness is via humble service. Because of the greatness of Jesus’ service, we have hope in this life and the one to come.

Prayer:

I love your kingdom, Lord. I love how you rule over all time and space and yet make your reign most evident in this world through the suffering band of fallen saints known as the church. Make your people to follow after your example of service, not notoriety. May we love and sacrifice for others, just as you have done for us. I pray in your name, amen.