“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. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.” Isa. 9:6–7
Lord Jesus, to know you is eternal life, period. But to connect with your “everything-ness” on a daily basis is to breath oxygen and feast on the finest of fair. In other words, you are essential and glorious.
On this Monday December 11th, we inhale and delight in the marvelous grace of Isaiah’s vision of who you are, Jesus. Knowing the government of the whole world already rests on your shoulders gives us a joy second only to knowing your shoulders fully bore the weight of our sin.
You are Wonderful Counselor—that is, God’s gift of incarnate wisdom to us… “our righteousness, holiness and redemption” (1 Cor.1:30). Today, this means we don’t have to have any doubts about what God thinks of us. He loves us as much as he loves you… stunning, freeing, transforming… the best news ever.
You are Mighty God—not merely god-like, but fully God, who at Christmas became fully man without ever ceasing to be God. Mystery of all mysteries, humility beyond measure… no wonder on the night of your birth angels harked, shepherds ran, and Mary marveled.
You are Everlasting Father—in this sense. You reveal the Father to us, and only through your finished work do we ourselves know God as our Abba, Father. Hallelujah, and thank you, Jesus.
You are Prince of Peace—our peace with God and God’s peace with us. And as though that isn’t enough, Jesus you are presently “making all things new” as you make your “blessings flow far as the curse is found.” Joy to the World, indeed, and joy to us today. So Very Amen.