And The Government Shall Be Upon His Shoulders
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 Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end. Isa. 9:6-7a
In our modern culture, when we say the word “government,” the image that comes to mind is its temporary nature. Governments rise and fall. If we don’t like who is in office now, we wait a few years and vote for someone else. Many have become cynical and don’t believe the government can do anything.
Using the word “government” waters down the intensity of what the Scripture is saying. To our modern mindset, it is better translated as “and dominion shall be upon his shoulder.” Now, what is coming to your mind when you hear dominion? A sense of royalty, rule, supremacy, never-changing authority, power, and ability to accomplish whatever is needed or desired.
Jesus carries the full weight of dominion on His shoulders. What beautiful shoulders they are. His shoulders are a source of strength for the weak and sick. They bear our burdens. They bore a cross on our behalf. They reach out to lift up the fallen. They provide a safe haven as He overcomes our enemies. They offer a place to rest our weary heads in times of heartache. They embrace us with a love that never wavers. They shake with laughter as we bring Him joy.
Isaiah 9:7 says that of His dominion, there will be no end. He is more than enough. He has abundant dominion for your every need. For whatever may be happening in your life right now, King Jesus has really big shoulders. Lean into Him. Be blessed to know that you can entrust yourself entirely to the King foretold of so long ago who came to earth to reign in your heart. King of kings and Lord of lords. Forever and ever and ever.
“Lord Jesus, master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. We who have so much to do, seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day. We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. We who are blessed in many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!” (Henri J. M. Nouwen)
Be blessed to know that you can entrust yourself entirely to the King
who was foretold so long ago and who came to earth to reign in your heart.
King of kings and Lord of lords.
Forever and ever and ever.
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