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Day 10 - Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness.
May he judge your people in righteousness, your afflicted ones with justice.
May the mountains bring prosperity to the people, the hills the fruit of righteousness.
May he defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy;
may he crush the oppressor. May he endure as long as the sun, as long as the moon, through all generations.
May he be like rain falling on a mown field, like showers watering the earth.
In his days may the righteous flourish and prosperity abound till the moon is no more. (Psalm 72:1-7)
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds.
Blessed be his name forever, may the whole earth be filled with his glory. (Psalm 72: 18-19)
We need leaders and they need us. Leaders use their talents and experiences to inspire us forward. What we often do not know is what motivates them, and the impact of their motives on our lives.
The main question is where they get their inspiration. The allure of power? Financial gain? Helping the greater good?
In God’s kingdom the source of leadership inspiration is clear. God’s leaders inspire through a divine sense of justice and righteousness – not their own. Serving others without prioritizing personal achievements. In Psalm 72 we have a prayer for a king. A prophetic message that speaks of caring for the needy, afflicted, and children. The message points to the birth of Jesus – the servant leader who models the way.
Jesus frequently used the symbols of water and the well in his teachings. They remind us of the power of living water and the importance of self-reflection. This Advent season we all reflect on our own personal well to serve others. As you gaze into your well, do you see the reflection of your face? Should it be Jesus? Is your well full or help empty?
Just as Jesus invited others to drink from the well of living water, we are also encouraged to reflect on what truly nourishes and fulfills our spirits.
As I look deep into my well, I see two things. On the positive side, I have gratitude for the blessings I have received and my well is half-full. Unfortunately, I also see my face. I hope to see Jesus yet so often I see myself. Advent is my chance to refocus on replacing my image with our Savior. My journey is underway and not complete. I see injustice and need to seek justice. A change in my mindset to confidently step in when I see wrong, rather than observe. To do the right thing.
Leadership in God’s Kingdom is not measured by outward success, but by a humble willingness to serve and uplift those around us. When we shift our focus from self-interest to selfless service, we become vessels through with God’s justice and mercy flow. Let there be justice for all and let it begin with me.
Prayer: God, thank you for sending your beloved son to save us. We honor his birth during this holy season and pledge to be better servants to others. May your grace remind us of justice and righteousness in everything we do. We ask this all in your beautiful glory. Amen.
Submitted by Todd Popham
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