Even a faint light dispels darkness. Here is another prophecy throughout the Advent season referencing the arrival of Jesus, our Messiah. Isaiah recalls the storied battles of our history in which God delivers his people through violence. The darkness abounds. Will Jesus be a violent conqueror? Alas, a change in melody, the prophecy declares The Light of Christ is coming, and it will change the world for every believer! Jesus is both God and man.

Let us celebrate His coming and His birth knowing we are made in His image. He intimately understands our fallen humanity, and His gift of infinite atonement perfectly meets our needs.

[Isaiah 9.2-7]

2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. 3 You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. 4 For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6 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. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ God promises the Messiah to deliver his people.

+ We are made in God’s image.

+ He understands the darkness that surrounds us.

+ God is our: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What darkness am I facing today?

+ Which of God’s four titles in this resonates most with me?

+ Why is the prophecy of light significant?

+ How do I experience the battle of darkness and light?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Are there opportunities to share the story of Christmas this Advent season?

+ Am I praying for those that aren’t believers?

+ Who can I invite to a Sunday gathering?