Our ideas of government might involve democratic elections and a free-speaking parliament. But history reveals repeating cycles of major world powers becoming increasingly autocratic and hostile to weaker countries. Ukraine reminds us that this is now happening closer to home, and too close for comfort.
So when the Bible says, ".. the government shall be upon His shoulders" in Isaiah 9:6, what does that mean?
Isaiah is clear that 'His' refers to the Messiah. Jewish people expected him to be a military saviour, like the Judges or King David. However, in Matthew 24:6-7, the Lord Jesus simply affirmed that there would be wars, international conflicts and natural disasters. But He would not arbitrarily intervene, or encourage His followers to fight to put Him on the throne, because His kingdom is already established in heaven (John 18:36).
What is Jesus' government? Simply, it is His right and power to bring everything and everyone together under His authority in a way that will be perfect (Ephesians 1:9-10).
What is the significance of His 'shoulders'? In the ancient Middle East, the robes of state were carried on the king's shoulders. In other words, He personally bears the burden of responsibility for everything He does and commands.
When will this happen? Ultimately, it will be fully seen at the end of time when Jesus' kingdom is revealed. Then, Satan will have no power to destroy; and even corrupted creation will be renewed to be a harmoniously glorious habitat for God's fully sanctified children (Romans 8:18-21). But the authority of Jesus exists now, and is welcomed by believers. All who rebel against His authority will be judged according to it on the Last Day.
In the meantime, Jesus invites weak and weary people to come to Him. Using the picture of a yoke that joins the shoulders of two ploughing animals, He promises to shoulder the majority of the load - taking the heaviest weight of the burden, making our load lighter to bear (Matthew 11:28-30).
These gospel truths give courage to all who believe in Jesus. We press on confidently trusting that our work will enable many more to come under His rule - for His glory and their blessing.
That applies now to BeaconLight's front-line workers in war torn countries, those battling for truth in the churches, those persecuted by anti-Christ religionists, those battered by intractable personal circumstances, and indeed every believer who is engulfed in a spiritual battle.
BeaconLight's work is to present the Lord Jesus Christ as the person who shoulders the huge responsibility of everything, including the sin of the world; as well as being the Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.
Because Jesus is in command of everything and will always do what is right ... we can work with Him in confidence and without fear. And when we have no strength, He carries us on His shoulders.
Thank you for praying that we and our front-line partners will do just that during 2026!