The King We Need, The Sacrifice We Didn’t Deserve
Morning: Deuteronomy 17-19
Evening: Mark 14:1-25
In Deuteronomy 17-19, God lays out instructions for leaders—kings, priests, and prophets—ensuring they rule with justice and humility, always depending on His wisdom rather than their own. The kings were to write out God’s law and meditate on it daily, avoiding the temptations of pride, greed, and self-indulgence (Deut 17:18-20). These commands pointed to the kind of leader Israel needed: one who would rule with righteousness and devotion to God.
In Mark 14:1-25, we see Jesus, the true and perfect King, entering His final hours before the cross. Unlike earthly kings who seek power, Jesus humbly accepts betrayal and suffering for the sake of His people. At the Last Supper, He offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, establishing a new covenant through His blood. While Deuteronomy lays the foundation for righteous leadership, Jesus fulfills it in the most unexpected way—by giving His life.
Today, we are reminded that Jesus is not the kind of King the world expects, but He is exactly the King we need. He rules with humility, justice, and love, offering us a kingdom that will never pass away.
Key Insights
- True Leadership Requires Humility and Obedience: God warned Israel’s kings not to seek personal gain but to lead in humility, guided by His Word (Deut 17:18-20). Jesus, the perfect King, demonstrated this by humbling Himself to the point of death (Philippians 2:8).
- God Provides Refuge and Justice: Deuteronomy 19 establishes cities of refuge, showing God’s heart for mercy and protection. Jesus is our ultimate refuge, offering salvation to all who run to Him (Hebrews 6:18).
- Jesus is the Perfect Fulfillment of the Law: While the Old Testament required obedience and sacrifices, Jesus became the perfect sacrifice, sealing a new covenant through His blood (Mark 14:24).
- The Cross is the Ultimate Act of Love: The anointing of Jesus in Mark 14:3-9 demonstrates extravagant love and devotion. Likewise, Jesus’ sacrifice was the greatest act of love the world has ever known.
- The Lord’s Supper Calls Us to Remember and Anticipate: Jesus established communion as a way to remember His sacrifice and look forward to His return. It is both a solemn reflection and a joyful anticipation of His coming kingdom.
Connection to Other Scripture
- Philippians 2:8 (KJV): “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
- Psalm 46:1 (KJV): “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
- Hebrews 6:18 (KJV): “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.”
- 1 Corinthians 11:26 (KJV): “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.”
Questions to Reflect On
- How does Jesus’ example of humility challenge the way you live and lead in your daily life?
- Are you actively seeking refuge in Christ, or are you looking to other things for security?
- What does the Lord’s Supper mean to you personally? How does it shape your faith?
- In what ways can you show extravagant love and devotion to Jesus, like the woman who anointed Him?
- How can you live in anticipation of Christ’s return while remaining faithful in the present?
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the perfect King in Jesus Christ. He humbled Himself for our sake, showing us true leadership through love and sacrifice. Help me to follow His example, walking in humility and obedience to Your Word. When the world feels uncertain, remind me that Jesus is my refuge and strength. May I always remember His sacrifice and eagerly await His return. Strengthen my faith, that I may live in devotion to You every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.