December 5th - An Eternal Kingdom
Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.
(Psalm 45:6-7)
In ancient times, kings would sit upon thrones made of gold and precious metals, wielding scepters as symbols of their authority. Yet even the mightiest kingdoms of history eventually crumbled to dust. The Psalmist speaks of a different kind of throne – one that will endure forever. During this Advent season, we get to remember that this eternal throne belongs to Jesus, the coming King.
What sets our King apart is not just His eternal reign, but the character of His rule. While earthly rulers often govern through force or fear, Jesus's kingdom is marked by perfect justice. His scepter – the symbol of His authority – represents not oppression but righteousness. In a world where we often see justice delayed or denied, we can take comfort in knowing that our King's justice is perfect and complete.
The mention of being "anointed with the oil of joy" speaks to a profound truth about Jesus's kingdom. In ancient times, kings were anointed with oil to mark their divine appointment to rule. But Jesus's anointing is unique – it's an anointing of joy. This joy isn't just happiness; it's the deep satisfaction that comes from perfect alignment with God's purposes. During Advent, we anticipate not just a ruler, but one who brings true joy to His people.
As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we're reminded that Jesus's kingdom isn't just a future hope – it's breaking into our world right now. Wherever justice prevails, wherever righteousness is chosen over wickedness, wherever joy overcomes sorrow, we see glimpses of His eternal reign. The baby in the manger would grow up to be the King on the eternal throne.
Further Reading:
"Here is my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen one in whom I delight;
I will put my Spirit on him,
and he will bring justice to the nations.
He will not shout or cry out,
or raise his voice in the streets.
A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;
he will not falter or be discouraged
till he establishes justice on earth.
In his teaching the islands will put their hope."
(Isaiah 42:1-4)
Ask the Following Questions:
1. How does knowing that Jesus's throne will last forever change how you view the temporary challenges in your life?
2. In what ways can you participate in bringing Christ's justice and righteousness into your daily interactions with others?
3. The Psalm speaks of Jesus being anointed with the "oil of joy." How do you distinguish between worldly happiness and the deep joy that comes from walking with Christ?
Prayer:
Eternal King, we bow before Your throne of justice and righteousness. Thank You for ruling with perfect wisdom and for bringing true joy to our lives. Help us to live as citizens of Your kingdom, pursuing justice and righteousness in all we do. As we prepare to celebrate Your first coming, fill us with anticipation for Your return when Your kingdom will be fully realized on earth. In Jesus's name, Amen.