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Dec 23, 2018

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7

Part of Isaiah's message was the terrifying report of judgment on the people of Israel.  They had been repeatedly unfaithful to God and He judged them severely. Isaiah 8:22 speaks of "distress and darkness" and "the gloom of anguish."  And all of it came upon these wayward people in the form of bitter captivity in Assyria and in Babylon. But then chapter 9 speaks of One who would pierce the gloom.  Isaiah 9:2,3 declare, "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light . . . they rejoice before you."

The source of this joy would be a child described in the familiar sixth verse of Isaiah 9.  He is the light which shines in the darkness (Jn 1:5). And in Isaiah 9:6, there are four wondrous names describing this son who is given to us.

He is the 'Wonderful Counselor', who guides us through life with infinite wisdom.  He is the 'Mighty God', in whose strong arms we rest securely. He is the 'Everlasting Father', whose parental care tenderly watches over us and guards us.  He is the 'Prince of Peace', who will bring quietness to the earth, even as He brings peace to our troubled hearts.

Who can fathom the glorious truth that the baby in the manger, with tiny hands and feet, needing the constant care of Joseph and Mary, is the Creator of the universe and the Savior of our souls?