TO US A SON IS GIVEN

Friday, December 23rd 2016

TO US A SON IS GIVEN

Isaiah 8:16-9:6

key verse: 5

The earth is like shadows. No light, yet God decided to send light. Just as colonized people see their country delivered, so freedom from oppression will come. But from whom does it truly come?

1. The people are in thick darkness (16-22)

The prophet's confidence in God is unfathomable. It does not diminish in spite of the people's rejection. His confidence serves as a sign and omen. He is proud of the message of God's judgement, which has been given to him to announce, though he is contiunually rejected by all. The prophet knows that if the people refuse God, his law and testimony, it is because they are in thick shadows and dominated by anguish. They will do strange things like calling the dead.

2. He shall be called Wonderful. . . (23-9:6)

This darkness will not last. Borderlands such as Zabulun and Nephtali are neglected, but this region will soon see light. How? The Messiah will be born there. He will give glory to the land of Galilee. The steps of Jesus will cross the land. The Messiah will throw light on the people sitting in the shadow of death. He will make the land prosperous and joyful. Sin and crime which made the people miserable will be burned away, like a garment rolled in blood is burned in the fire. Through the blood of Jesus, all our sins will be erased and we will be white as snow (1:18). The baby is frail in the cold, but he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He is the sovereign who hold the earth by his righteous right hand (6).

Prayer: Lord, you who were born in Bethelem as a baby, you are the Savior, Christ and Lord of the world.

Bottom line: A child of God was promised and born at the first Christmas. It's Jesus.