[The soldiers] stripped [Jesus] and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. … After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.
Matthew 27:28,31
My Humble Heavenly King
Devotion based on Matthew 27:28,31
See series: Devotions
Who is Jesus? He is my humble King who freely submitted to the scorn of the soldiers who surrounded him. Christ is the King of kings and Master of all creation. Yet he emptied himself of his heavenly glory and power as he faced the ridicule of the Roman soldiers. Although he committed no crime, he bore the cruelty of a criminal and wore a thorny crown unbefitting his holy brow. My King willingly suffered for me.
In absolute humility, King Jesus willingly walked to the cross, bearing a greater pain than the pounding of the nails that pierced his blameless body. The Sinless One bore the guilt and shame of all my sins. Jesus is the perfect substitute who fully satisfied the just wrath of God as the guiltless God-man. His sacrifice paid the full price to win my forgiveness! My King selflessly died for me.
Jesus is also my heavenly King, who now wears a crown of glory. He arose triumphantly from the grave. His glorious resurrection assures me that all the work of my salvation is complete. After the mockery that led to his death came the victory that brings life to all people. I am ever-confident that Christ the King will return on the last day and raise me from the dead. Then I will rejoice as he brings me to his everlasting heavenly kingdom. My King will mercifully come for me!
Until the day of his triumphant return, my Savior-King lovingly calls me through the gospel to be devoted to his service. He strengthens me to bear the crosses I endure in this life. Why would I not long to serve him each day with the life he has freely won for me? For Christ compels me with a gracious promise—he offers me a glorious crown too! He said, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). My King surely cares for me!
Prayer:
Jesus, my Savior-King, when you suffered and died, you did it all for me. By your death I now have life and forgiveness. Strengthen me each day to be faithful to you as I await your triumphant return. Amen.
Powered by WPeMatico