A Prayer about a King, Not a Co-Pilot
Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish and uphold it with justice and
righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
(Isa. 9:7)
Merciful Jesus, I thought I’d seen it all. I didn’t really think there were many more surprises waiting for me . . . until yesterday. The SUV in front of me looked like a Christmas tree with blinking lights, ornaments, an angel on top and all. But right there on the bumper there it was—centered and unblemished, a 15-by-4-inch banner proclaiming, “Jesus Is My Co-Pilot.”
After repenting of my cynicism, I was happy to affirm in busy traffic, as I do this early morning, that you’re not a co-pilot. You’re a king, the King of all kings, “the ruler of kings on earth” (Rev. 1:5) and everything else. The last thing I need in life, or in death, is a co-pilot. Co-crucifixion and co-resurrection with you, yes! Co-pilot, no.
Advent’s the season in which we get to acknowledge there’s only one government and one peace sufficient to meet the needs of our sinful hearts and this bro- ken world. King David’s throne has now become a throne of grace from which you rule the world, advancing your kingdom of peace, justice, and righteousness in the hearts of your people, among the nations of the world, and in every sphere of your creation.
Jesus, with zeal and grace you’re working all things together after the counsel of your will. You— the Lamb of God, the Lord of Lords, and the Lamp of the New Jerusalem— are working in all things for your glory and for our good. No one and nothing can derail, deter, or distract you from bringing to completion your good work of redemption and restoration. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
As the gospel of your kingdom continues its transforming work in my life, Jesus, may it advance through my life. As you love me passionately, I would love you missionally, living in your redeeming story, to your matchless glory, with your unspeakable joy. I pray in your mighty and merciful name.
Amen.