The Servant Shall Be Exalted

Isaiah is considered among the greatest of the Old Testament prophets because of his many predictions of the Messiah. Christmas is the time when we celebrate the birth of this Messiah, so you’ve probably heard this one 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)

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.” (Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 52:13)

Jesus was the son of God, yet He was the ultimate servant. He is the perfect example of a heart that serves. Here is one of my favorite verses about our Lord: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)

Matthew is the Gospel that most exalts Jesus, as Messiah, the King! And yet we read that serving was a vital quality in King Jesus’ life—a priority and a way of life for Him.

The Bible tells us that Jesus, very early in His ministry, was “tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1-11). With each temptation, Jesus resisted Satan by quoting Scripture. Satan’s last enticement was a trade-off of power and glory if Jesus would fall down and worship Satan. Jesus replied to the devil, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.” (Matthew 4:10)

If you have a family, the role of serving others is a given. If you’re married, you have a spouse to serve and care for. If you have children, add them to your list of those whom you serve. And don’t forget your parents and in-laws…and on and on your list goes! If you’re not careful, your service can become focused on people. Then one day, you realize you’ve forgotten about your call to serve God. Jesus spoke about this 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.” (Matthew 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, our Precious Savior of the World, came first as a lowly servant. Open your heart and behold how the greatest man—and servant—who ever lived modeled what it means to serve and sacrifice.

RESPOND:

Dear Lord, thank You for fulfilling Your plan of redemption for the world. Thank you for the ultimate example of a servant in Your Son. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

In The 50 Most Important Teachings of the Bible, Jim George highlights key teachings every believer should know. With clarity and simplicity, this book focuses on the most essential elements of the faith.

REFLECT:

Take time to memorize Isaiah 9:6 over this month: “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.”

REMEMBER:

As a believer in Christ, each and every day gives an opportunity to love the Lord with all your heart. But, especially in these weeks before Christmas, take time one more to read the story of His servant-hood and sacrifice for you in Luke 22-24.