A Prayer About Jesus As King, NOT Co-Pilot


Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:7



Merciful Jesus, living in the South, I thought I’d seen it all, in terms of bling-bling laden cars… until yesterday. For a moment I thought I’d inadvertently become a part of a Christmas parade. An SUV in front of me looked like a fully decked out Christmas tree… blinking lights, ornaments, an angel on top and all. But right there on the bumper—centered and surrounded by flashing red lights, there it was… a 24 x 12 inch placard proclaiming, “Jesus is my Co-Pilot.” I’ve seen the bumper sticker before, but this was way over the top.

After repenting of my condescending cynicism, I was happy to affirm in busy traffic… as I do this early morning… that you’re NOT a co-pilot. You’re a king, the King of all kings—“the ruler of the kings of the earth” (Rev. 1:5) and everything else. The molecules of your manger and the details of your death were under your control. The last thing I need in life or in death, is a co-pilot. Co-crucifixion and co-resurrection with you, Yes! Co-pilot, never.

Advent’s the season in which we humbly and gladly affirm there’s only one government and one peace sufficient to meet the needs of our sinful hearts and this broken world. King David’s throne has now become your throne of grace—a throne from which you rule the world with grace and truth. Your kingdom of peace, justice and righteousness is advancing through the nations of the world… redeeming your Bride and infiltrating every sphere of your creation.

Jesus, with zeal and Swiss-timing, you are working all things together after the council of your will. As the Lamb of God… the Lord of Lords…and the Lamp of the New City, you are working in all things for your glory and for our good. No one and nothing can derail, deter or distract you from bringing to completion your good work of redemption and restoration. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Jesus, as the gospel of your kingdom continues its transforming work in our lives, may it advance through our lives. As you love us passionately, we would love you missionally… living in your redeeming story… to your matchless glory… with your unspeakable joy. So very Amen, we pray, in your mighty and merciful name.


Scotty Smith