Isaiah 9:6-7

“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.” vs. 6

In Isaiah’s time the coronation of a new king was the occasion for glad exultation and expansive expressions of great hope. The king’s new name would be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace and under his authority there would be everlasting peace. Of course actualities never did match the expectations and the people endured continual disappointment. But even after their nation was destroyed and the kings were no more, the faithful clung to Isaiah’s words with a spirit of hope and anticipation, until, in the fullness of time, another child was born, and his parents called him Jesus. Later on that child’s followers worshiped him as the Christ, the fulfillment of ancient promises, and gave him the old king’s name. This week, on Christmas Eve, we’ll gather with his disciples from around the world to reaffirm the old promises and expectations. Conditions in our world continue to disappoint the faithful…there is so much suffering and pain…but we refuse to let go of hope. In the presence of darkness and despair we turn our faces to the Light of the World, and trust that in him one day divine love will conquer and peace will prevail.
Thought for the Day: Why do I continue to hope in spite of disappointment?