December 24 Devotion

Christmas Eve

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given:
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end.       (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Imagine for a minute you are standing among the group of people in the southern kingdom of Judah, as the prophet Isaiah is speaking these words about their "Messiah,"  the One coming to reign over them.  Isaiah has already reminded these people that they must turn from their evil ways of living, and return to their sovereign and holy God. Now God is sending them a Savior, a light for them to follow in the darkness of their ways and their days, whose reign will never end.  Isaiah is making this prediction over 700 years before the birth of Jesus.

And yet, now as we stand here, almost 3000 years later, we must certainly realize that these words spoken so long ago, predicting the arrival of a Messiah, continue to be exciting - dynamic - true words spoken about Jesus Christ, the Lord of our lives, our light, our king.

As we prepare ourselves and our families to celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus tomorrow, let us always remember these words spoken so long ago, and sung by choirs everywhere at this festive time of the year, explaining the wondrous nature of our Messiah, born as a baby in humble surroundings, who reigns as our light and love still today.

Wonderful Counselor - the great wisdom, teachings and servant leadership of Jesus

Mighty God - Jesus, the Son of God, part of the trinity

Everlasting Father - Jesus' perpetual relationship to us and God

Prince of Peace - Ruler of our lives and our souls

And His presence and His light will never be extinguished.

May the light and love of Jesus Christ fill you, guide you and bless you this day and for always.  Amen

Suzanne Ellis

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