March 29, 2004

THE SON OF THE HIGHEST

"He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David" (Luke 1:32, NKJV).

Quite unexpectedly, the angel Gabriel paid a surprise visit to Mary and made the startling announcement that she was soon to be the mother of the long-expected Messiah. Along with the stirring announcement came several birth names and titles for the soon arrival. Among these was the regal title, "the Son of the Highest."

The descriptive words, Highest or Most High, denote ascendancy and preeminence. God the Father is frequently referred to as, "the Most High" (Acts 7:48, NKJV) and the "most high God" (Genesis 14:18). The title "Most High" as applied to Jesus is descriptive of His position as creator and Redeemer.

Throughout Christ's ministry on earth, His work was a confirmation of the angelic announcement. Ironically, even the devil had no option but to recognize Him as the Son of the Most High God (see Mark 5:7). In Gabriel's thrilling announcement, he also said of Jesus, "He will be great" (Luke 1:32, NKJV). Everything Jesus did was consistent with this announcement. Whether preaching, healing, teaching, or performing miracles, He was the greatest. As the Son of the Highest, His greatness in all He did was unsurpassed.

In God's infinite grace, He has also conferred on those who do His will the unique honor of being called children of the Highest (see Luke 6:35). What undeserving honor to be in such high and noble company! Thank God that by His grace, we can be called children of the Highest! "The Son of the Highest suffered shame on the cross, that sinners might not suffer everlasting shame and contempt, but be ransomed, and crowned with eternal glory."--Lift Him Up, p. 98.

My Prayer Today: Son of the Highest, thank You for making me a child of the Highest. Amen.