Majestic strains of Handel's Messiah wafted into the air for the first time in the year 1742, from a music hall in Dublin, Ireland. Since that day, appreciation for the masterpiece has flourished throughout the world, making it one of the most central and delightful components in celebrating the birth of Christ. The miracle of the music is perhaps surpassed only by the extraordinary way in which George Frederic Handel composed it.

Handel was at a crossroads at that time, his future prospects grim. After having enjoyed two decades of popularity, his life had taken a desolate twist. He lost his fortune, was abandoned by many friends, censored by the church and partially paralyzed by a stroke.

One wintry morning, Handel shut himself in his studio and for the next 24 days focused on writing music, rarely stopping to eat or drink. Toward the end of his self-imposed exile, a servant entered Handel's studio to find him with tears streaming down his face. Looking up, Handel exclaimed, I did think I did see all heaven before me, and the great God himself. The time spent behind doors composing had been an epiphany for the forlorn musician. The result was the Messiah.

I have loved Handel's Messiah since the first time I sang it in high school chorus. I've listened to it scores of times, and the depths of truth and heights of hope so passionately reflected in the music and lyrics never fail to stir me. Like King George II who flew to his feet at the first strains of the Hallelujah Chorus, every time I hear those familiar words – King of kings and Lord of lords -- my heart takes flight.

The reality that Jesus is King of kings is the greatest news the gospel has to offer. Christ reigns -- times and seasons, and our hearts as well are in His hands. The Sovereign Son to whom all authority has been given, does not stand in heaven shuddering at the horrors of humanity or wringing His hands, hoping mere mortals will come to His aid. His dominion rules over all (Psalm 103:19).

Yes, there is a King -- He is the King of kings whose rule is eternal. Civilizations rise in power and glory only to be reduced to paragraphs in history books, but the government that rests on Christ's shoulders will never end. His reign is absolute, unlimited and independent of any other person or thing. He has never needed a coronation, for His Kingship is intrinsic to His very existence.

There is a kingdom, and the King of kings reminds us that though it is not of this world, His reign is as real as the very air we breathe. It is a glorious kingdom, for the King is exquisite in His manifold perfections. His rule is one of perfect justice, punctuated by endless love, and imposed through infinite power.

Those of us blessed to be subjects of this kingdom serve willingly, for the reign of our Monarch resounds with wonder and delight. We live with longing to see the fruition of His rule in our hearts, our homes, our cities, our nation and throughout the world. Thy kingdom come resonates with every prayer we pray.

Jesus is King of kings, a joy that rings from our depths in faith-filled worship. He is a worthy King, deserving full all'giance and lives that bear testimony to the splendor of His ways. When once we’ve walked in the presence of His majesty, our souls find purpose only in bowing before Him in loyalty and submission. For every soul into whose heart He has come to reign, there is a future and a hope, even in the face of life’s greatest trials. The profound truth that the kingdoms of this world will one day become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, takes us to the heights of lofty praise as it did so long ago in the heart of George Frederic Handel (Revelation 11:15).

King of kings and Lord of lords.
And He shall reign forever and ever.
Forever and ever, forever and ever.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Hallelujah!

Respond

As we have seen from the start of these meditations, there is one eternal fact that gives perspective and meaning to every other reality: "Behold, a throne..." Ar you becoming more aware of this? How is it affecting the daily details of your life? What situations are you facing that gain an entirely different perspective in light of Christ's eternal reign?

Handel 'saw' something that day in his studio. Paul would say he was given a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God, that his eyes were enlightened to the hope of his calling (Ephesians 1:17-18). Has this been your experience? Have you had a time or times when your spirit was awakened to the wonder and incredible beauty of Jesus, King of kings? If not, begin making these words your heart cry today and in the coming days as you come before Him: Jesus, show me Your majesty.

The reign of Jesus as King of kings is a glorious one. His majesty and splendor are beyond description. When we glimpse the King of kings on His throne, we are stunned by His beauty, humbled at our inadequacy, and compelled to speak of what we have seen. Ponder the throne of the King of kings. Look into the face of the One who rules over all. Worship Him. Write a prayer of response .

A Prayer

Jesus, King of kings, I am yearning for the day Your kingdom comes in power, for even momentary impressions of Your dominion leave me breathless. I am astounded by the magnificence of Your majesty and in awe of Your sovereign splendor. I worship You worthy King. My mouth cannot keep silent – I must tell of your mighty acts and make known the glory of Your kingdom. Daily my King I sense the dissatisfaction of living in a fallen world where evil resonates from the thrones of men. We need Your reign -- nothing else will do. Come O King of kings and rule, dissolving all other dominions beneath Your feet. Magnify Your name until every knee yields under the weight of Your glory.

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Copyright © 2004 Tricia McCary Rhodes