For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Modern tellings about heroes may begin with what makes them extraordinary. When this prophetic message was given about the hope that God would bring to the world, the hero was not described by physical powers He would use to conquer but the person He was and the place in the world He would hold. This hero would come as a child, the Son of God. He would be identified with humility and power, and His power would be used for miraculous reconciliation as God in flesh—the Counselor, Father, and Peace that the world needs.
When we look around, it is not hard to find the brokenness. We are faced with hard times, tragedy, and daunting new headlines all the time. But our hope is held by one who does not just solve the problems of a moment but can heal the full brokenness of humanity. He deals with the issues of the world at the heart, giving the healing we most need. Our hope is secure in Him not just because of what He does, but because of who He is, not only today, but forever.
- What are some of the problems you have been asking God to take care of? How has He answered differently than you hoped or expected?
- What of this description of Jesus stands out to you? Why?
- Pray and talk to God about how He works differently than you expect. Thank Him that He has given a lasting hope in Jesus.
