Horizon Church Christmas Advent Bible Reading Plan: The Joy of Every Longing HeartSample

When we peer into the manger of a nativity scene, we look at much more than a baby. We behold the King of all kings who sets our sin-imprisoned hearts free with all the authority only the King who reigns over every corner of His Creation could possess. On this day, during Advent, we’re celebrating the glorious truth that the time had come for God to send His Son (Galatians 4:4). We’re celebrating the birth of our King.

A king is given to rule. The people of Israel wanted their king primarily to subdue and restrain opposing nations—to fight their external battles. But is someone who only exists to fight opposing forces truly a king, or is he more like a military leader? No, a king commands the loyalty and service of his people. When Jesus sat down at the right hand of God, He sat on a throne (Revelation 4:2). When He was born in that manger in Bethlehem, He was born as the people of God.

When Isaiah describes Jesus, He calls Him His servant (Isaiah 42:1–9). What makes this king the Servant of the Lord? His strength would not come from chariots and weapons but the Spirit of God (v.1). He would establish justice (v.4). His manner would not be overbearing but gentle (vv.2–3). He would bring deliverance, not from the temporal and fading nations but from our spiritual blindness and broken relationship with God (vv.6–7). His glory would not come from gold, empires, or armies but from God Himself (v.8). His rule would command devotion.

Jesus came to conquer (Micah 5:2). He did not come as the people expected—as one who would overthrow and rule the nations. No, He came to conquer our hearts to restore humanity’s broken relationship with God. This is good news; it’s what we need more than anything else—to be restored to our Maker.

Part of worshipping this One “born a child, and yet a King” comes by way of submitting to His rule in our lives as our spiritual act of worship (Romans 12:1). So worship the King who by His life and death has secured for you peace with God. May His Spirit further conquer your life so that your celebration of Christmas might be marked by your worship of Jesus Christ, the King. You’ve been given no greater gift.