Jesus: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:18 NIV
In the past year there was much stir around the United States with large events in June and October designated as “No Kings” protest rallies. Whether you agreed with them or not, they illustrated what the United States was built on – that there would never be a King here. Our national government was based on three equal branches in order to give the best chance for justice, equity, and wisdom across the board. Even in England, the place where we have our historical roots, there are several restrictions put in place to make certain that no one person could ever have unilateral authority. They have the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches balancing each other. There is a prime minister as well, and the king, the monarch, is largely a ceremonial figurehead. Why is this? Well, because trusting one person to be a fair, just, and wise ruler seems impossible.
And that’s understandable. Only Jesus has the capacity and capability to be a perfect King for everyone of us, in the U.S. and anywhere else on earth. He embodies the qualities of a perfect King, able to rule and have ultimate authority and justice in every situation. He is sinless and righteous. Unlike all human kings who are like all of us – born sinners and we fail – Jesus lived a life without sin, fulfilling all of God's laws and requirements. His righteousness means His rule is perfectly just and fair. He has sovereign authority. He has all authority because He is the Creator and Sustainer of everything in existence. Nothing happens unless He permits it, and even the evil events He permits but does not choose are worked out for the ultimate good of those who follow Him. He is a sacrificial leader. Jesus completely redefines kingship and leadership by ruling through humility and self-sacrifice. He gave His life to rescue His people, an act of power and love no other ruler could perform. Jesus is the all-powerful protector and defender. As King, Jesus protects His people from spiritual enemies, including sin, death, and Satan. He has defeated these forces through His death and resurrection. He is caring and compassionate. While Jesus was on earth, He demonstrated His understanding care for people from all backgrounds, regardless of their status. His rule is marked by grace, generosity, mercy, and goodness for all, guiding, providing, and protecting His followers like a good shepherd. His Kingdom will never end, and He will always reign. Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but Jesus' kingdom is everlasting and will never be destroyed. He is the fulfillment of God’s promise that the perfect King would sit on the throne forever.
- This is the King we have! For 2026 and always, His perfect rule is a Source of Joy and Peace: Submitting to Jesus' perfect rule brings inner peace, freedom from worry, and infinite joy no matter the circumstances as we trust in His perfect wisdom and control. No Kings? No – ONE KING. Only Jesus. 2026 and always.