Invitation and Preparation
O God, make speed to save us
O Lord, make haste to help us
(Silence)
Let us pray:
Blessed are you, sovereign Lord, just and true: to you be praise and glory for ever. Of old you spoke by the mouth of your prophets, but in our days you speak through your Son, whom you have appointed the heir of all things. Grant us, your people, to walk in his light, that we may be found ready and watching when he comes again in glory and judgement; for you are our light and our salvation. Amen.
Listen and Receive
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.
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.
Isaiah 9:6-7
May the Word of God rest gently on our hearts, that when our hearts break the Word of God may flow in.
(Silence)
Reflect and Respond
Isaiah gives us a vision of the sovereign reign of the Lord, the time when the Kingdom of God is established forever. We find here names for the Messiah - Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. We also find the promise of true peace, shalom, under the gracious rule of God.
It is difficult for me to read this passage without hearing the glorious music of Handel’s Messiah. The Biblical prophecy and musical vision stir my heart and bring tears to my eyes. Deep within me, I recognize the truth and the promise of God’s sovereignty, His justice and righteousness, His love and His zeal.
I wonder, as you consider the great majesty of God, in what way might He be inviting you to participate in the shalom of the Kingdom of God?
Blessed and Sent
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.
In this season of light, may your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.