Lead Like Jesus: Mobilizes

November 22, 2025

Bible Readings

  • Luke 23:33–34
  • Colossians 1:11-20
  • Matthew 28:16-20
5-Day Devotional – Christ the King

Lead Like Jesus — Christ the King

A 5-day devotion for Christ the King Sunday: seeing ourselves clearly, receiving Christ’s mercy, and following the authority of love.

Day 1 — The True Mirror Luke 23:33–34

📖 Scripture: Luke 23:33–34
“There is only one true mirror, only one gaze that shows us who we really are.”
We often see ourselves through distorted “fun-house mirrors”: comparison, criticism, expectations, and fear. Christ the King invites us to look instead into God’s steady, loving gaze — the only one that tells the truth about our identity and worth.
  • What “fun-house mirrors” distort how you see yourself?
  • How would it change your week to see yourself primarily through Christ’s eyes?
Practice: Begin today by praying, “Christ my King, show me who I truly am in your eyes.”

Day 2 — The Authority of Love Luke 23:35–43

📖 Scripture: Luke 23:35–43
“He said, father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing… Today you will be with me in paradise.”
On the cross Jesus redefines kingship. His authority is not domination but mercy. Christ reigns not by overpowering enemies, but by absorbing violence and returning grace. This is what kingly power looks like in the Kingdom of God — forgiveness that reaches the forgotten, the guilty, and the hurting.
  • Where do you need to experience Christ’s forgiving authority today?
  • To whom might Christ be calling you to extend mercy?
Practice: Speak one prayer of forgiveness today — even if your heart is still catching up.

Day 3 — A Mission With a Promise Matthew 28:18–20

📖 Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me… I am with you always to the end of the age.”
Christ does not send us alone. The Great Commission is rooted in the same love revealed on the cross — a love that stays, guides, strengthens, and commissions us. His authority becomes our courage; his presence becomes our peace.
  • Where is Christ calling you to act, speak, or serve this week?
  • How does his promise — “I am with you always” — empower you?
Practice: Pay special attention to the people around you today. Where is Jesus calling you to extend extra love, care and attention to someone, to be the presence of God for them?

Day 4 — Citizens of a Different Kingdom Luke 23:39–43

📖 Scripture: Luke 23:39–43
“We follow a king who did not save himself so that he might save them.”
Christ’s kingdom doesn’t mirror the world’s way of winning. Power is shown in compassion. Victory is revealed in self-giving love. Christ the King reshapes our values and calls us to make his mercy visible “here and now.”
  • Where do you see the values of Christ’s kingdom clashing with the values of the world?
  • How might God be calling you to embody “upside-down” love?
Practice: Choose one concrete act of compassion that reflects Christ’s kingdom.

Day 5 — Guided by the King Psalm 23:3; Matthew 28:20

📖 Scripture: Psalm 23:3; Matthew 28:20
“Jesus is our divine gps, faithfully recalculating, directing and leading us to our lives of purpose and service.”
Christ does not simply forgive us or commission us — Christ guides us. When we lose our way, he redirects. When we feel uncertain, he leads. When our purpose seems unclear, he restores clarity. Your King walks with you every step.
  • Where do you need Christ’s guidance right now?
  • What “recalculation” might Christ be prompting in your life?
Practice: Pray: “Lead me, O Christ my King,” at the beginning of each day, and before any big decision this week.
Prepared for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church • Lead Like Jesus series — Reigns (Christ the King)