Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.” So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?”

Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice” (John 18:33-37).

The Jews had been waiting for generations to receive their king, and when he came they did not see him. As we prepare ourselves for Advent today we celebrate Jesus as King of the universe. Do you recognize the King in your life? Perhaps your life does not look the way you thought it would. Perhaps you imagined more glory, more reward? Jesus, the Son of the Living God, humbled himself and came to earth where he was not recognized as a king but was rejected, tortured and killed. Offer him your life, your dreams, your sacrifices and recognize your unworthiness in the presence of a king. We must listen to his voice. Only he belongs to the Truth and only he can reveal it to us. Let yourself be humbled and let the King of the universe raise you up in hope and the glory of the kingdom of heaven. Take a moment to thank him for coming and then listen to his voice. He came for you and he longs for you to see yourself through his eyes.

PRAYER: Jesus, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, how frequently I forget who you truly are. Thank you for humbling yourself and coming to earth that I might be saved.  Help me to live in your presence, changed by the truth of your sacrifice and your great love. May my life be a living sacrifice of praise to you, King of the universe. AMEN