There are two readings for today.

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 2
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. [Matthew 17:5-6]
The disciples have a vision of God’s Messiah in all His glory.
In Psalm 2, David has a vision of God’s Messiah (‘anointed’) in all His glory.
Before God’s Messiah, all must bow, for He is the God’s supreme Ruler.
I will proclaim the LORD’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father. [Psalm 2:7]

Both David and the disciples have a brief vision, but what they see is true, whether people see it or not.
Many people resist God’s Messiah – The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed, saying, “Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.” [Psalm 2:2-3]
But they are not just resisting Jesus, they are resisting God, and that is pointless (vain).
All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Jesus, whether people admit or accept it or not, and one day they will realize the truth of it.

He is not a harsh or cruel ruler – blessed are all who take refuge in Him [Psalm 2:12].
But those who take their stand against Him and His good kingdom will find themselves fighting against a formidable foe.
His glory is veiled, and many people do not recognize or respect Him.
But think about it, what better King is there to serve, what better Ruler is there for obey?
He stands for peace, justice, truth, fairness, compassion, mercy, generosity, joy, etc.
His goal is a kingdom where there will be no more tears or suffering or inequity or poverty.
He stands up for the underdog, and opposes those who are cruel, greedy, oppressive.
Are these chains, are these shackles?

God is establishing His creation kingdom, and since we failed to do our part, He is doing it for us through His Messiah – Jesus the Christ (Anointed One).
Choose now who you will serve, but heed God’s advice: Listen to Him!
Or as David says it, Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling. Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. [Psalm 2:10-12]

PRAYER:
Lord, not only are You King, You are a good King, the best King, the only Ruler worth surrendering to. Give me faith to see Your glory, and strength to submit to You!