Jesus the Unexpected King

Christmas is just around the corner! 
2021 has been a challenging year filled with drought, pandemic, border closures, changes, challenges, grief, loss, fear and uncertainty.  We have been forced to stop and think about life in a whole different way, one that has seen us change much of how we do life.  

At Christmas we are reminded of another time in history where the world was in chaos, a time when anxiety, fear and darkness abounded, a time when people were searching for hope.  In a world of darkness, Jesus surprised us with hope in the most unexpected of places and circumstances.  Hope in the form of a King born into a messy, chaotic manger; a King born to working class parents; a King who sought out, lead, served, and ministered to the lost, broken and outcast; a King who served without expectation of reward; a King willing sacrificed himself for those who hated him; A King who paid our debt, and to set us free.  A King who showed us that hope and joy is found where in places and circumstances where we least expect it.  

The life, death and resurrection of Jesus was prophesied; King Jesus was long expected!  But he did not come or conquer in the way that the people hoped.  The people were looking for a conquering king who would meet them on their terms, and deliver them in their way.  As we prepare for the coming of King Jesus, we too fill our lives (and particularly our Christmas’) with all kinds of expectations. The bible, however, teaches us that Jesus is not particularly concerned with our expectations. For Christ, Christmas is not about tradition but salvation; it’s not about expectations but sanctification. Christmas is about love - earthy, gritty, sacrificial, even bloody love.  When Jesus came, he did not come “to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). This was a love that no one expected, and provides hope that exceeds all our expectations.

This year as we prepare for Christmas let’s strive to love as He loves, and serve as He serves.  Let’s truly make Christ King of our lives (sovereign over all of our life) and experience the true unexpected hope and joy of serving the unexpected King!

Grace & Peace

Jen