Most of us are familiar with Isaiah 9:6-7; it’s a favorite Christmas text. But notice that the passage starts with the word “FOR”. What is the “for” for? Let’s move back a verse or two and take a listen to the words of the Lord through Isaiah, reaching across some 700 years of time into the chaos of our world.
Every warrior’s boot used in battle
and every garment rolled in blood
will be destined for burning,
will be fuel for the fire.
6 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.
7 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. (Is. 9:5-7 NIV)
I don’t have to remind you that we on this planet are at war, war with each other, war with a world order that threatens to drain the life out of us, even war with ourselves. The Prince of Darkness spreads hate and misery everywhere. But his days are numbered. The day that the Prophet spoke about is coming. No more need for the warrior to don combat boots. No more garments soaked in blood. For unto us a CHILD is born! Our Prince of Peace is coming back, not as a tiny baby confined to a manger, but as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
May the Prince of Peace speak Peace to your hearts tonight, even in this moment. Immanuel – God with us – all things are possible, even now!
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:26)