Christmas is upon us. As the advent season winds down, we prepare to celebrate the birth of our King and Savior, Jesus Christ. Last-minute chaos is about to happen as gifts get wrapped, cookies need baking, and meals prepared. Yet, with all the hustle and bustle, have we really given thought that the King has come? Immanuel, God with us. Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
God is King. Ever since He spoke the universe into existence, He has been on the throne. He commanded the stars, seas, heavens, and waters. God’s creation was perfect. He created man and gave us the task of ruling over his earthly kingdom. Not long after that, Adam and Eve decided they wanted more control and wanted to be King. God already had a plan to deal with sin. He knew he would send His son. Sent in a humble way, but sent as a King.
Even before Jesus’ humble beginnings, others saw God as King. David, a king himself, often made references to God as King in his Psalms.
Your throne is established from of old; You are from everlasting. Psalm 93:2 NKJV
Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. Psalm 45:6 NKVJ
God’s reign is forever. Our elected officials will all pass on. Some will leave a small mark in history, but none can compare to the true King. He was at the beginning, and he will be for as long as we’re here on earth and then beyond into eternity.
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Isaiah 9:6–7 (NKJV)
So how are we preparing to celebrate the birth of the King? Hours and days flash by us without thought, and turning our hearts to God can become secondary. That was true thousands of years ago and still is true now. Prepare for Him!
The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
“Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make straight in the desert
A highway for our God.
Isaiah 40:3 (NKJV)
Are we right with God? Not just for Christmas, but for eternity. The last two years have shown us with fervor that our time here on earth is short. This season, we have an opportunity to allow a new King to have control in our lives. When the wise men heard of Jesus’ birth, they immediately recognized the new King.
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1–2 (NKJV)
What was their first response? Worship! When they understood who had come and his purpose, their response was appropriate.
So why? Why was the King sent to earth? While the cross shows us salvation, Jesus’ message to us during his short time here on earth was clear: The Kingdom of Heaven is here.
Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14–15 (NKJV)
This gospel or poorly translated into English as “good news.” Is that God’s Kingdom is here on earth, and we’re invited to be a part of it. This isn’t good news; this is GREAT NEWS. The new King is in charge. We have victory. We have freedom. Freedom from being a slave to sin. Freedom from addiction. Freedom in Christ.
Think about the gift that God has given you this Christmas. Celebrating the holidays without the ones we have lost can be difficult, but God has given us a gift so wonderful and so amazing. He is comforter, counselor, mighty King. With all of our shortcomings, all of our flaws, he still gives us the most amazing gift. Until next time, remember God loves you and Jesus is Lord over Auto Racing! God Bless. Remember that your prayerful support and donations help us continue this ministry. Thank You.
