While they were listening to this (Jesus’ interaction with Zacchaeus), he (Jesus) went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. He said: “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. (Luke 19:11-12)
It’s ironic that I reached this verse on Election Day in the United States. Polls show Joe Biden will win, but the polls predicted Hillary Clinton would become President four years ago. Republicans and Democrats are more divided than they’ve ever been. Each party feels the United States will be doomed if the other wins. As I publish, it’s post-Election Day. Joe Biden is winning, but if Pennsylvania goes to Trump, Biden will lose. If your candidate doesn’t win (or even if he does), we can still have peace. Jesus has authority over heaven and earth. Joy to the World!
Understanding this parable takes a bit of digging through the Bible. The man of noble birth is Jesus, and the distant country is the kingdom of the world. Jesus wanted everyone to know when He reached Jerusalem the kingdom of God wasn’t going to arrive from heaven like a lightning bolt and wipe out the Romans. The kingdom of God was already in their midst. (Luke 17:21) Jesus wouldn’t become king of the world by defeating the Roman empire.
Jesus arrived a baby in the kingdom of the world to someday be appointed king, but not in the way the world expected or the devil hoped. The devil had the authority of the kingdoms of the world when Jesus arrived (see Luke 4:5-7) and tempted Jesus to obtain his authority in an easy manner. All Jesus had to do was bow down and worship the devil. Jesus knew the right way to obtain authority was to worship God and follow His plan, so He refused the devil. After Jesus died, He followed up with the eleven disciples in Galilee and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18) Jesus rules both God’s kingdom and the kingdom of the world, so he can save the lost and welcome them into the kingdom of God.
Dearest Father in Heaven. Thank you for taking authority of the world. I am in Your hands, not the enemy’s. So, my work for Your kingdom is important no matter who becomes President. Lord, let the United States reunite under Your leadership. As one in Your kingdom, show me how to help. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Your prayer surprised me as I know you do not like to talk about politics in your devotion. I think that it is appropriate though. Many people are stressed right now as the presidency is in limbo while we await poll results. We were listening to the news yesterday morning and all of a sudden I realized how stressed it was making me. I turned it off and prayed that God will keep our nation together the next four years no matter who is president. It doesn’t help to be stressed because we can not change the peoples voice. At the end of the day it will be what the majority wants and that process needs to be respected.
Heavenly Father, please help our country heal. Help us remember to love comes first. Help us remember to love our neighbor as we love our self. Help us to remember respect and peace. If we do this it will be a better country no matter who is president. I pray in Jesus Christ’ name. Amen
I don’t like to talk about politics, especially political views. It was more about God being in control and stress I hope.
Good write-up. I certainly appreciate this website. Continue the good work!
Thanks so much for your encouragement and for visiting my website. I prayed for you and your family. Blessings, Jody