ODJ: The King Who Never Dies

September 5, 2017 

READ: Psalm 24:1-10 

Who is the King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty;the Lord, invincible in battle (v.8).

The death of a king in 2016 elicited deep grief from the people of his nation. The news resounded around the world as citizens wept over the loss of their beloved ruler. One man said the monarch had been a caring leader for every person. Another woman was in such despair that she couldn’t even eat. This king was an able leader who helped bring political stability and economic development to the country for more than seventy years. The loss of his leadership caused many to look with fear towards the future.

As I watched the faces full of sadness over the news of their leader’s death, I felt sad for them. But I also thought about my heavenly King—the One who lives forever and will never die. In Revelation, Jesus said, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End” (22:13). Knowing this truth gives me peace and comfort when grieving the loss of leaders and others.

David recognised God as the King who reigns over all the earth. Though a king himself, in Psalm 24 he proclaimed the greatness and dominion of God. He knew that he’d become a king not by his own might but because the Lord chose him and “appointed [him] as the leader of Israel” (2 Samuel 6:21). With evident excitement, enthusiasm and reverence, David gave praise to God—the “King of glory” (Psalm 24:8). He then welcomed Him—desiring to be in His presence. He wrote, “Let the King of glory enter” (v.9).

What an amazing thought to ponder: the everlasting Creator of the universe has been and continues to be actively at work among us! He allows those “whose hands and hearts are pure”, through His work in their lives, to seek and worship Him in His presence (vv.4,6).

—Estera Pirosca Escobar

365-day-plan: Mark 12:28-37