A Prayer about Jesus’ Broad Shoulders
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it with justice
and righteousness from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
(Isa. 9:6–7 NIV)
King Jesus, knowing the government of the whole world already rests on your shoulders profoundly humbles and gladdens us. It fills us with a joy second only to knowing your shoulders fully bore our sin.
Jesus, in you are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. You are Wonderful Counselor. We look to you for knowledge of great mysteries and insight into things eternal, but you’re also the one to whom we look for counsel on loving well— handling fresh disappointments, old hurts, and unfulfilled longings. You care about everything.
Jesus, you uphold all things by the power of your Word. You are Mighty God, the one who created and sustains the entire universe. You also give us power to boast in our weaknesses when we’d rather be self sufficient.
Jesus, to see you is to see the Father, and by your work we know God as Father. You care so tenderly for the needs of the world— even the flowers of every field and the birds in every sky. But you also care about us. We are no longer orphans. Jesus, no one else can pretend to be the Prince of Peace, for you alone paid the price of peace on the cross. Even as you are bringing the increase of your government and peace to all things, so you are advancing the reign of your grace in our lives. Forgive us when we look for wholeness, contentment, and healing some where else, for it cannot be found except in you.
For your broad shoulders, big heart, and coming kingdom, be glorified, O blessed Messiah and Redeemer. We pray in your matchless and merciful name.
Amen.