December 6, 2022
Isaiah 9:6-7 Susie Schnitker
More than 700 years before Jesus’ birth, the prophet Isaiah writes: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. As a child in the church Christmas program this was always one of my favorite verses to hear spoken. One year I even got to say this part in the program. I didn’t fully understand all the words, but I knew the descriptors used by the prophet to tell of the Christ child were majestic, dignified, and glorious, and that is what intrigued me. As we look at each characterization individually we are reminded that even born in human flesh as an infant child in a lowly stable, Jesus fulfills each of these grand descriptions. Wonderful Counselor, this is a reminder to us that Jesus wants us to live through his example. He provides us with many life lessons as our counselor throughout his life on earth. He is our mentor, our teacher, our guidance counselor. Mighty God, in Matthew 19, Jesus says “with God all things are possible”. This reminds us that Jesus was not an ordinary human born to man. He was the Son of God who conquered death and the devil and gives us eternal life. Through Him all things are truly possible. Everlasting Father, God has been present from the beginning. He is our alpha and omega and by grace we are part of His family. We have an Everlasting Father, our protector, and provider that gives us unlimited forgiveness and unwavering love. Prince of Peace, Jesus came to give himself for us, the priceless gift of forgiveness of sins and eternal life. In John 16 Jesus says “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world”. Even in the Old Testament, God gives his people hope to cling to and a promise of peace without end through his son Jesus Christ. As we continue through the Advent season may we hold tight to this promise. May everyone feel the peace of the season as we prepare to celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.
Heavenly Father, may we always revere you as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Give us childlike hearts through this Advent season to experience your pure love and presence in our lives. Keep us attentive to the season and not distracted by trivial things. Bring peace and joy to our hearts and guide us daily through your grace. Amen
