Scripture:
“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.” – Isaiah 9:6
Devotional:
All through history, kings have risen and fallen. Some built castles, armies, and kingdoms, but their power always faded. Their crowns tarnished. Their thrones eventually crumbled. People longed for a ruler who would not only reign but also love.
Into that longing, Isaiah spoke a promise: A King is coming. He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He will carry the weight of the world, and unlike every other king before Him, He will never fail.
But when this King came, He did not come in the way anyone expected. He wasn’t born in a palace. He wasn’t laid on silk sheets or wrapped in royal robes. He was born in the dirty stable, in an animal filled stable, to a poor teenage girl. His first throne was a feeding trough. His first worshipers were shepherds. His crown would one day be twisted thorns.
Why? Because this King had come not to be served, but to serve. Not to demand loyalty, but to give His life. He is the King who would bleed for His people, the King who would carry our sin on His shoulders, the King who rules not by fear but by love.
Jesus is the only King whose reign will never end and whose crown will never fade. He is the King who bends down to wipe away our tears. His throne was a cross before it was ever a crown of glory. The manger is the paradox of Christmas: the infinite God became small, so we could belong to Him forever.
This is the King who has come for you. Not distant. Not demanding. But present. Loving. Eternal. A King who will never walk away.
Application:
How is Jesus different from the kings and leaders of this world?
What does it mean to you that this King came for you personally?
Prayer:
“Jesus, You are my forever King. You are mighty, but You are also gentle. You hold the universe, but You also hold me. Thank You for wearing a crown of thorns so I could one day share in Your crown of life. Help me to bow my heart to You every day. Amen.”
Family Advent Activities
1. Crown Ornament
Cut out a crown from gold or yellow paper.
Let kids decorate with sequins, stickers, or gems.
Write “Jesus, My King” in the center and hang it up.
Tie-in: “Every crown in this world fades, but Jesus’ crown lasts forever.”
2. Royal Scepter Craft
Wrap a paper towel tube in foil or paper.
Add a foil or pom-pom ball at the top for a “jewel.”
Tie-in: “Jesus is the King who rules with love, not power or fear.”
Recipe Option:
Crown Crackers
Round crackers topped with cheese triangles and a grape or raisin “jewel.”
Tie-in: “Jesus is the true King who wears the crown of love.”
