DECEMBER 15 - The Unexpected King
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 29:26–27; Psalm 143; Hosea 3:4–5; Micah 5:2–5a; Zechariah 9:9; John 12:12–16
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“Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that a man gets justice.” — Proverbs 29:26
“For the children of Israel shall dwell many days without king or prince… Afterward the children of Israel shall return and seek the Lord their God, and David their king, and they shall come in fear to the Lord and to his goodness in the latter days.” — Hosea 3:4–5
“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey.” — Zechariah 9:9
“And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, ‘Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt!’” — John 12:14–15
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When you think of a king or a hero, what comes to mind? Probably someone powerful, impressive, maybe even a bit intimidating. In today’s readings, though, we’re reminded that God often flips our expectations.
While people seek justice from rulers (Proverbs 29:26), real justice and hope come from the Lord. Israel waited a long time for a king—not just any king, but the King. And when He came, He didn’t roll up in a chariot with a sword. He rode in on a donkey, humble and peaceful (Zechariah 9:9, John 12:14–15). This is the unexpected beauty of Jesus: He came not to crush enemies but to save us, not to rule with fear but with love.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Who are you trusting for justice? It's easy to put our hope in leaders, influencers, or systems to make things right. But how often do we look to God first?
2. Jesus doesn’t fit the mold: The King of kings came riding a donkey. Are you open to God working in your life in ways you don’t expect?
3. Peace in the middle of the storm: Psalm 143 shows someone crying out in distress. Are you inviting Jesus—the peaceful King—into your hardest moments?
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BOTTOM LINE
Jesus is the King we didn’t expect but exactly the one we need—humble, loving, and just. Trust Him to lead your heart, especially when the world feels confusing or unfair.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, our humble King. Help me trust You when things don’t make sense and follow You even when the path looks different than I imagined. Remind me that real hope and justice come from You, not from the world around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.