Artwork by Eleanor
Isaiah 9:2-7
by Bill Tuck
It is impossible for me to read these words from Isaiah without bringing to mind the majestic refrain from the Hallelujah Chorus of Handel’s Messiah. The prophetic words resound with unspeakable joy, “And his name shall be called: Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
The prophet Isaiah was addressing the gloom that northern Israel was experiencing in their struggle with the Assyrians, and announced the dawn of hope in the royal birth of the Messiah. His poem of hope proclaims the dawn of a coming light for the people who have walked in great darkness.
As “Wonderful Counselor” the one whose birth would be celebrated will be filled with wonder and awe and his counseling or administrative gifts will assist us in our planning, direction, grief and needs with guidance too wonderful to comprehend.
As the “Mighty God,” he will always have power over his enemies to uphold us, and will be the invincible champion of the oppressed and needy.
“The Everlasting Father” –Father forever—will always provide us with unfailing love, care and protection, and welcome us home from our wandering or despondency.
As the “Prince of Peace,” he will restore our inner brokenness, our fragmented relationships with others and teach us how to live in harmony with all persons and bring an end to the ways of war.
Reflect again in this Advent season on the wonder, mystery, joy, assurance, and hope we celebrate in the birth of Jesus, the Promised One.