ADVENT DEVOTIONAL | Day 22 | The Shepherd King

READ
4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. 5 And he shall be their peace.
Micah 5:4-5a

REFLECT
Have you ever had a boss who saw you as a person, not just a role in the company? Or a teacher who cared not only about what you learned, but about who you were becoming? There is something deeply refreshing about leaders who genuinely care for those they lead. Sadly, Israel had rarely experienced that kind of leadership throughout much of its history. Instead, they were often ruled by selfish kings who promoted idolatry and injustice rather than faithfulness and compassion.

Yesterday, we reflected on God’s promise through the prophet Micah that a king would be born in Bethlehem. Today, we consider what kind of king He would be. This Promised One—whose origins are from ancient days and who would be born in the city of David—would be a shepherd king. Clothed with the strength and majesty of the Lord, He would faithfully guide his people. He would not rule for personal gain or power, but would provide safety, security, and peace. He would embody the care and faithfulness David ascribed to the Lord in Psalm 23.

Jesus identified Himself as the fulfillment of this promise, saying, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). As our Good Shepherd, Jesus leads us into abundant life—both now and for all eternity.

RESPOND

• How have you experienced the security and peace that comes from having Jesus as your shepherd?
• What does it look like for you to follow the guidance of the Good Shepherd this week?