As we approach the holiday season, many of us take time to reflect on the deeper meaning behind our traditions and celebrations. One of the most profound Bible verses that resonates with me during this time is from Isaiah, which speaks of the birth of a child who will bring hope and peace to the world.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6(ESV).
This scripture reminds me of the incredible promise that comes with the birth of Christ. It’s not just a historical event but a reminder of the hope and light that enters our lives in times of darkness, sorrow, grief and amid immense joy. The imagery of a child being born conveys a sense of innocence and potential. However, this child, left His majestic dwellings in heaven and entered earth small and vulnerable, to carry the weight of the world on His shoulders.
The beautiful world that God created was broken and groaning under the weight of its brokenness and rebellion. God would have been rightly just to stay His distance, look away and allow the world to crumble in this state. However, His response was not one of judgment and condemnation. Instead, in His mysterious sovereignty and grace, He looked at the world through eyes of love and mercy and set in motion an intervention and rescue plan. God came, in human form, as His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from ourselves-Immanuel, God with us.
Paul David Tripp says,” God would take on human flesh and invade his sin-broken world with his wisdom, power, glory and grace. But he wouldn’t descend to a palace. Instead, the Lord Almighty, the Creator, the sovereign King over all things would humble himself and take on the form of a servant; he would live on our behalf the life we could never have lived, he willingly died the death we deserved to die and rise from the tomb as the conqueror of sin and death.” Thus, guaranteeing us eternal life if we believe in His Son and accept Him as our Lord and Saviour. What a wonderful, glorious gift of hope!!
He came as the Wonderful Counselor to impart wisdom to those who think they know it all. He came as Mighty God, possessing power beyond our understanding and strength greater than our struggles, reminding us that even in our most difficult moments, we are not alone. He is a force that champions justice and mercy. He came as Everlasting Father, reassuring us that we have a steadfast and eternal Protector, inviting us to be part of a larger family grounded in love and acceptance. Finally, He came as the Prince of Peace, helping our hearts to remain untroubled by offering us His peace. This peace comes through salvation and His presence in our lives—a peace that is different from worldly peace, which is temporary and dependent on our circumstances.
Each year, we come together with our loved ones during the Christmas season to exchange gifts, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company. However, we all know that family gatherings can sometimes lead to tension, bickering, worry, strife, jealousy, and the resurfacing of old wounds, which can disrupt the joy and peace of Christmas.
As we celebrate this festive season, let us carry with us the spirit of the child born in Bethlehem—a spirit that inspires hope, nurtures love, and brings peace to our world. We should strive to support one another, drawing on the wisdom Christ exemplifies. In times of adversity, let us find strength in that Mighty God. Let’s open our hearts in love, embracing our role as part of the Everlasting Father’s family. Most importantly, let’s actively seek and promote peace in all our interactions.
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of this Christmas season. As we prepare to enjoy the holiday festivities, please calm our hearts amid the busyness of life and fill us with your grace and peace. Holy Spirit, guide us to show love to one another and enable us to serve as beacons of Your peace to those around us. Remind us of the hope and love that came with Your Son, Jesus. We release all our anxieties and worries into Your care and trust that You will sustain us with Your abundant peace. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen!
