Matthew 2:6 “O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.”
The word “advent” refers to the coming or arrival of someone or something. It is traditionally and liturgically connected with Christmas. Christmas is about an arrival—the most significant arrival in history. It is about the Advent—the coming of Jesus Christ.
In Matthew 2:6 we see that the Advent of Jesus is associated with Him ruling and shepherding people. He has come to rule our lives and to shepherd our souls. He is the true Shepherd-King.
When we invite Jesus Christ into our hearts, He establishes His rule over us. He helps us understand what is good for us and what is destructive to us. He provides us with principles to live by and boundaries to live within. His rule over us is one of love. He guides us tenderly, as a good shepherd oversees his sheep.
Take a moment to give praise and thanks to the Lord for coming as your Ruler and Shepherd. Determine to give Him unrestricted reign over your mind, will and emotions. Choose to trust and follow Him wholeheartedly as your Heavenly Shepherd. Thank Him for His Advent in your life!
PRAYER
Lord, how grateful we are that you have come to rule over us. Left to our own rule, we always make a mess of life. Thank you for bringing guidance, truth and structure to us. Thank you that you rule as a loving Shepherd, always looking after our needs and providing for our best. Jesus, thank you for coming! In your name, Amen.
