As I read these verses and the stories leading up to such an incredible promise I couldn’t help but think of all the times I have sat and watched the news and fear rose up in me. I often look at my babies and wonder what their world will be like. What political oppression will they face because of their faith? What will our government take control of in their days? I catch myself having to choose not to think about such things because it makes me overwhelmingly afraid. I can remember a day when I was serving as the Assistant Youth Pastor under Pastor Jeff. I was pregnant with Harper, my first child. I couldn’t even tell you what it was that stirred up fear in me that day but I remember coming into work in a panic. I can probably attribute half of the hysterics to pregnancy emotions (which may or may not have happened a lot! I’ll never tell) and the half to true fear, but nonetheless, it got to me. I was in a paralyzing state of fear about bringing my new baby into a world that is corrupt, broken and often times not lead by Godly people. I learned in the next few days that in those moments I have to run to the Lord, I have to turn my worries over to Him and know that by the grace of God His promises hold true. What amazing hope that brings to me!

Many kings and their unwise, selfish and ridiculous choices had managed to scatter God’s chosen people and spread corruption. However, God promises, “The days are coming, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.”

I am not one for political debates, you won’t ever find me bringing up politics (except for this one exception…oops) but most people can agree that all government choices are not wise ones, no matter where your loyalties lie. Today I want to offer a challenge. The next time you find yourself pregnant, late for work, freaking out over things you saw on the news and that are out of your control… or maybe just doing whatever it is you do on a normal basis if those criteria don’t apply to you, I challenge you to remember the promise. Remember that for those of us to believe in a wonderful God, the best is yet to come. Sure, there may be bumps along the way but the promises of a saving King, a just King, a right King, a returning King are yours.