For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.  Isaiah 9:6-7

The Bible describes three major roles which Jesus has, prophet, priest, and king.  This passage in Isaiah deals with the kingly role of Jesus more than anything else.  The passage says that the government shall be upon Jesus’ shoulders.

This is not saying that the government will beat down upon Jesus (though it would before His death on the cross).  It is saying that Jesus will carry the government on His shoulders.  In other words, as we sung this past week in our worship service,

“He shall reign forevermore.”

The passage goes on to describe Christ’s reign.  It will be marked by unending peace and be established and upheld with justice and righteousness.  Jesus’ kingdom is not like our earthly governments. Having just finished another national campaign season, we can see a stark difference.  The November election was anything but peaceful and politicians that truly understands justice and righteous are few and far between.

Jesus doesn’t reign as a tyrant.  He will never be corrupt.  He will never lie.  His is a kingdom of love, peace, true justice, and perfect righteousness.  So, no need for term limits.  His kingdom is forever.

However, this passage in Isaiah isn’t just intended to describe Jesus kingdom.  It is a prophesy telling us He will rule.  Sometimes, like in this last election cycle or when there’s a mass shooting, it may not seem like God is in control, but He is…and we can count on it.  To quote another song from this past week’s worship service,

“This is our Father’s world…though the wrong seem oft so strong, God is the ruler, yet.”

So, when things seem like they are spiraling out of control and when we start to question whether all is lost, may we be reminded of God’s kingdom.  When evil seems to be prevailing, may we trust that God is still in control and He reigns with justice and righteousness.  May we find comfort that no one and nothing can overthrow His throne.

Dear Jesus,

Often our governments seem broken or evil.  Your church is attacked and justice seems distant.  Bring peace and justice to our land.  Guide are leaders and turn their hearts to you.  Bring peace to our hearts and help us to trust in You.

Amen

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Kurt