Isaiah, one of the greatest of the Old Testament prophets, gave many predictions of the coming Messiah. This one is likely familiar to you, as it is often quoted during the Christmas season:
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Though that is a well-known prophecy, there are many more that exemplify Jesus’ life and death. Isaiah uses the word servant several times to describe the nature of Jesus’ earthly ministry. He wrote, “Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights!” and “Behold, My Servant… shall be exalted and extolled and be very high” (42:1; 52:13).
The Ultimate Servant
During this Easter season, our attention is especially drawn to Jesus’ servanthood. He was the son of God, yet He was the ultimate servant. Perhaps my favorite verse about our Lord is Matthew 20:28: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” One thing that touches my heart about this truth is that it is written in the book of Matthew—the Gospel that most exalts Jesus as Messiah, the King!
The Savior
Let us take time this weekend to exalt King Jesus, our Savior, just as the crowds did as He entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday:
“The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: ‘Hosanna! “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” The King of Israel!’” (John 12:13)
Serving was a strong quality for King Jesus’—a priority and a way of life for Him. He spoke to this priority when He said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment” (22:37-38). Loving and serving God first, is the most important thing a Christian can do.
As you consider the character quality of service, give praise to God that Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior of the world, came first as a lowly servant. Then open your heart and behold how the greatest man—and servant—who ever lived modeled what it means to serve and sacrifice.
RESPOND
Dear God, thank You for King Jesus! May I always be in awe and worship Him for His sacrifice. Thank You for saving me. Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES
The Bare Bones Bible Handbook by Jim George—a clear, practical, and fascinating guide for learning about the books of the Bible in short overviews.
Easter Prints—We’ve created three special prints to help you celebrate Easter!
REFLECT
As a believer in Christ, each and every day gives an opportunity to love the Lord with all your heart. As Easter approaches, take time to read the story of Jesus’ servanthood and sacrifice for you in Luke 22, 23, 24.
REMEMBER
Loving and serving God first, is the most important thing a Christian can do.