Saturday, December 17, 2022  

Today’s Scripture Reading
Isaiah 9:2–7
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. (NRSV) 

Reflection

The Israelites had been through a difficult time: a time of darkness, a time of war, which is vividly described by the “boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood.” They had been oppressed and living in the darkness. 

Then a child was born and, with this child, a promise of a new reign—a peaceful reign, one that would be upheld “with justice and with righteousness.” How wonderful and exciting this time must have been. They would no longer have to live under an oppressive rule; their burdens would be lifted, and they would live in the light.

How wonderful and joyous do the promises of the passage seem in the midst of the trials and tribulations of our world? How often are we in a time of darkness or a time of war—whether spiritually or physically or emotionally? As we move through this season, we can turn to this passage and celebrate the coming of our Messiah. We can bask in the promise of a reign filled with justice and righteousness, where our loads will be unburdened and our joy will be increased. For the Messiah, Christ our Lord, is indeed a “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” 

Prayer

God of righteousness and justice, thank you for the fulfillment of your promise and the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, the Messiah. Amen. 

Written by Shanna Wood, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church 

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

Devotion index by date

Please email me daily devotions