For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government
will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6
As I await the darkest day of the year, and prepare my heart to celebrate Christ’s birth, there is so much to think about.
Almost tripping over one holiday to get to the next, I’m reminded how the Israelites walked in darkness, and how at times I do, too.
Turning on the holiday lights, I pause with a hot mug in hand to gaze upon the nativity figure of Mary atop of the piano. Assured by angel Gabriel, this young and humble servant girl exemplified obedience as she surrendered to accomplish her heavenly mission (Luke 1: 28-38).
Responding to God’s call, Mary gave birth to God’s gift of Light to reveal God’s essence to us.
Much more than a sentiment on a Christmas card, the prophet Isaiah identified four names to describe and distinguish our all-loving, all-knowing newborn King. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9: 6).
Staring at the Holy Family, I rest in silence knowing that each awe-inspiring name from the prophet Isaiah is more than just a word on a page. Born in a stable to replace evil, sin, and gloom with goodness, hope, and the promise of eternal life, Jesus will forever be the Greatest Gift of All.
As I contemplate my most challenging times with Scripture, each attribute enlightens my heart with encouragement. I am hoping that they may shed some Light on your circumstances, too.
As Wonderful Counselor Jesus displays God's guidance and overwhelming love throughout the New Testament. The Holy Spirit’s presence, and connection to the Father gives you and I direction in how to live our lives. He speaks to you and I saying, “My daughter, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge” (Proverbs 5: 1-2).
The personal Wisdom He provides is faithful, righteous, and true, and is all the guidance you and I will ever need.
As Mighty God “The Lord is faithful, and will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3: 3). Meditating in his presence, and standing on God’s Word, you and I realize Jesus was born to conquer death and rise again.
Fighting every battle for you and for me, He alone is “the Mighty Warrior who saves” (Zephaniah 3: 17).
As Everlasting Father, “The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation” (Colossians 1: 15). He is all-knowing, all-loving, ever present, and his divine activity in your life and mine draws us to him to grow into the person He has created us to be.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1: 8).
God’s unfailing love is unshakable.
As Prince of Peace, Jesus wants nothing more than for you and I to dwell in his presence. “Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you. Accept his instruction from his mouth and lay up his words in your heart. If you return to the Almighty you will be restored. Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and lift up your face to God. You will pray to him, and he will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows. What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways” (Job 22: 21-23, 26-28).
For when we do, peace brings hope for the hurting, comfort in every storm, strength through weakness, and the ability to endure any sorrow.
King Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace who came, “to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” (Matthew 4: 14,16).
My dear friend, as you take in the beauty of the season, it is my prayer that the Light of Christ will illuminate your path in new and exciting ways.
May the gift of Light shine in your heart and home this Christmas.
Until next time…
May the Spirit of God lead you, the Word of God sustain you, and the promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.
With love and Christmas blessings.
✍️This week’s Questions for Reflection on Isaiah 9: 6:
*Which attribute of Jesus resonates with your current life situation?
*How does understanding Jesus this way help you embrace the Light
of Christ? Name ways you can radiate his Light for others.
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Sue Dick, Author of Nourish Your Soul: 7 Secrets for Women Seeking Peace
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