Have you ever tried to count the names of Jesus in the Bible? Allow me to cut to the chase and tell you: there are hundreds, in fact! Some of those names are perhaps more common or familiar to us (Christ, Savior, Prince of Peace) while others are especially prominent at certain times of the year, like Easter or Christmas (Messiah, Lamb of God, Immanuel).
But as Thanksgiving approaches, I’ve been prayerfully reflecting on one name that I’m particularly grateful for this year. Matthew 2 tells us that after Jesus was born in Bethlehem, “wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.’” (v. 1-2)
King Jesus.
Fast forward another 30 years or so. In John 18, after Jesus is arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, He’s brought before Pontius Pilate to be tried as a criminal. Pilate, uncertain of the “crimes” for which this man has been accused, asks Him directly, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus responds:
“‘My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.’
Pilate therefore said to Him, ‘Are You a king then?’
Jesus answered, ‘You say rightly that I am a King. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.’” (v. 36-37)
King Jesus.
On the day of His death, Jesus affirmed His rightful title as King – a title that was openly mocked by those who beat Him, placed a crown of thorns upon His head, and ultimately crucified Him, all while sneering, “Hail, King of the Jews!” In the end, His claim of Kingship is what cost Him life itself. But He claimed it anyway – not for His sake, but for ours.
He has many titles. But only a King could defeat the power of sin and death once and for all.
In a year like this one, it would be all too easy to doubt the sovereignty of God. But the truth is this: in the midst of elections, pandemics, conflicts, loneliness, grief, and fear, the King still sits on His throne. He’s already seen the other side of whatever obstacle it is that you and I are facing. And His Kingship surpasses every trial we may endure in this life.
So as you reflect in the coming days toward Thanksgiving – and about what in the world you could possibly have to be grateful for after a year like 2020! – my prayer is that you’ll be able to pause – really pause – and bask in His majesty. And as you do, may you celebrate the fact that we‘ve been rescued, redeemed, and restored to a relationship with the King of Kings for all eternity.
King Jesus.
