Promises of Hope- Monday, December 2nd

ISAIAH

There are so many wonderful verses in the book of Isaiah, and several are quoted in the New Testament as a way to confirm that Jesus is indeed the promised Messiah. The book of Isaiah is rich with prophecy and poetry. The writers describe the coming of a Savior, but also foreshadow the suffering and sacrifice this Savior would endure. Today as we reflect on the prophetic Promises of Hope, we once again find our deep hope in Isaiah’s beautiful prophecy of the birth of our Savior Jesus. We do so with grateful humility, as we also are reminded of that painful reality- the sacrifice Jesus would endure to give us this hope (see Isaiah 53).

Light the Prophecy Candle.

Isaiah 9:2, 6 (NRSV)

The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined…
For a child has been born for us,
a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

I have four Christmas ornaments with these descriptive names for Jesus: Wonderful Counselor. Mighty God. Everlasting Father. Prince of Peace. (Every time I hang them on our tree, I begin singing Handel’s Messiah. 😊) These names are another source of our hope. Our Wonderful Counselor is present with us today, guiding us and helping us along each step of our journey. Our Counselor is listening and supporting, encouraging and insightful. Our Mighty God gives us strength and power for the challenges we face, providing the necessary wisdom, foresight, and even respite for our trials. Our Everlasting Father loves us unconditionally- and always. Our Prince of Peace is the One who knows us fully and best provides that peace beyond our understanding. We are given serenity, perspective, and calmness for our daily living.

Prayer: Thank you for the hope that is found in having you, Jesus, as our Wonderful Counselor… Mighty God… Everlasting Father… and Prince of Peace. Thank you for all you endured to make this so. Amen.