“You are not the boss of me!”

This has been the cry of the oppressed toddler, the kid on the playground, and even some mid-level managers, though it is probably screamed only in their heads.

We will always have bosses — some good, some not. Whether parents and teachers, or the guy who says our productivity is just not good enough, there is always someone telling us what to do. And for the most part, we complain because we don’t like anyone telling us what to do.

What if there was a boss who was always wise, patient, gentle, kind, and faithful with promises? What if that boss always had his employees’ best interests at heart, regardless of circumstances, and was there when help was needed? What if following this boss and doing what he said turned out to be the very best job ever?

Isaiah 11 tells us of such a man — not a boss to lord his position over us, but a Lord King to save us. He will be a ruler who Himself stands in awe of the Lord. He will be righteous and dispense justice to each based on obedience, not favoritism.

Isaiah 11:1-10 foretells God’s plan for a king to rule His people. But more importantly, these verses are God’s announcement of a Savior. This kingdom will be different. This king will ask His subjects to follow Him, not demand obedience from them. He will draw people to Himself through love, not fear.

The king whom Isaiah describes came to earth on Christmas night. His name is Jesus. The Advent season is a time to remember and prepare for the coming of our king anew — the best boss we could hope for or imagine and a king unlike any other!
 
Reflect:

• If you have had to deal with a bully boss or one who simply seemed clueless about your value, how did this affect you, your work, and your family?
• If you have had the opportunity to be a boss, how have you treated your employees? How has the example that Jesus set affected you, your work, and your family?