Advent is both a celebration of the first coming of Christ in humility as well as the anticipation of his second coming. The juxtaposition of both the incarnational humility of Christ and His exalted Kingship over all the earth is what makes the Advent season so awe-inspiring. Advent calls to mind both the humility of a manger and the glory of a throne.
To that end, we have two passages for our call to worship today. First, Psalm from Psalm 72.
May the kings of Tarshish and of the coastlands render him tribute;
may the kings of Sheba and Seba bring gifts!
May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him!
(Psalm 72:10–11 ESV)
Here we see the Kingship of the coming Messiah. He is worthy of tributes from all the kings of the earth, bringing gifts before him.
Then, in Matthew’s Gospel, we see a glimpse of this as the Magi come to the Christ child, bringing gifts.
And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.
(Matthew 2:11 ESV)
As we worship today, may we reflect on the humility of Jesus and the majesty of his future Kingdom—His manger and His throne. Let’s join our voices as we sing.