I was struggling to lift the 100 pound bag of cement. Just then, one of the big construction workers came over, grabbed the bag with one hand, flipped it onto his shoulder, and walked away. “Wow!” I thought. Wouldn’t it be great to be that strong?!
In Isaiah 9:6, speaking of Jesus, the Bible says, “…And the government shall be upon His shoulder.” Before we are told who He is through His name, we are told what He does: He is the strength of the government of God, and He is able to do what needs to be done.
The word “shoulder” here, is a Hebrew word that can refer to the back, the neck, and the shoulders, and it has the idea of strength and ability. It is the picture of Atlas, with the world on his shoulder.
This is the prophet’s picture of Jesus. Actually, the world is looking for a powerful ruler – one who has the ability to solve the problems of the world. Yet, no one can be found who can accomplish this herculean task. Politicians always promise the sky, but they usually deliver considerably less.
Years ago there was a shuttle lifting off with scientific experiments on board, including jellyfish and rats. One of the late night comedians quipped, “There goes Congress.” You see, what we need is a truly strong shoulder to lean on. What we need is the strength of Christ – Almighty God, who is filled with divine wisdom. There’s no question about it, “And the government shall be upon His shoulder” is our ultimate hope.
Say – is the load you are carrying too heavy for you? Why not let Jesus carry it on His shoulder?