Read Isaiah 9:2-7

Read Isaiah 9:2-7

The people walking in darkness

have seen a great light;

on those living in the land of deep darkness

a light has dawned.

You have enlarged the nation

and increased their joy;

they rejoice before you

as people rejoice at the harvest,

as warriors rejoice

when dividing the plunder.

For as in the day of Midian's defeat,

you have shattered

the yoke that burdens them,

the bar across their shoulders,

the rod of their oppressor.

Every warrior's boot used in battle

and every garment rolled in blood

will be destined for burning,

will be fuel for the fire.

For 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.

He will reign on David's throne

and over his kingdom,

establishing and upholding it

with justice and righteousness

from that time on and forever.

The zeal of the Lord Almighty

will accomplish this.

Reflect

Hundreds of years before the birth of Jesus, the Old Testament prophet Isaiah wrote this passage that speaks about who the future Messiah would be. How do you think Jesus fulfilled some of names and attributes listed in the last part of this passage?

Respond

Reread several times the verse that starts with "And he will be called," and choose the name that stands out most to you today. Then praise Jesus for being the holder of this title. Ask him to show you how he can more and more fulfill this role in your own life.