“...from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel.”  

- Micah 5:2

I had a friend who was an accomplished biblical counselor. Often, those who came to visit him were combative or unwilling to listen. He would lovingly address these people by saying, “You know, your best ideas led you into this office... perhaps it is time to start listening to someone else.”

When the Christ child came, He came not merely as a comfort, although he was that.

Not merely as a rescuer, although he was that.

Not merely as a healer, although he was that.

No, He came as King. He came to rule. If Christmas has a paradox, it's this: the vulnerable baby in a manger is the Creator/King sitting on the throne. Baby Jesus “is to be ruler.”

As we contemplate the birth of Jesus this Christmas, we must be fully aware that He is our King, and we are His subjects. Jesus calls the shots. He is our Lord. Our life is in his kingdom, not our own.

As you receive the gift of the baby at Christmas, remember that the baby demands you give yourself to him.

Today’s Reflection & Action:

What in your life needs to come under the lordship of Jesus?

Spend some time in prayer consecrating those area to him now.

Faithfully,
Pastor Chris

Paper Sunday is blessed to collaborate with Chris Harper on this Advent Devotional Series.

Chris Harper is a speaker, writer, and disciple-maker. Chris is President of 252Edu, a consulting firm based in Dallas, Texas. Chris serves schools, churches, and non-profits by helping them "grow in wisdom, favor and stature with God and man.”

When not taking ground for King Jesus, you can find Chris on the basketball court playing a pick-up game. Chris is a sneakerhead, an avid reader, and loves a good cheeseburger. You can follow him @252consulting on Instagram.