Isaiah 9:6
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.
Devotional Thoughts
By Gary Wilkerson
When the prophecy of Christ’s birth was fulfilled, King Herod, the ruler of Israel, was threatened, as was everyone in Jerusalem (Matthew 2:1-3). Apparently, they were satisfied with their shallow, dead religion and did not want anyone shaking up the status quo.
The same is true today. The growing animosity toward Christmas evidences itself in many ways: schools no longer hold Christmas pageants; manger scenes are banned in public places; businesses greet clients with “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas,” to name just a few examples. Jesus foretold that as the day of his return draws near “the love of many will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12), so this is not a surprise.
Jesus came into the world to be a light and we must not lose the heart of Jesus by becoming caught up in the culture wars. As the world sinks lower and lower, and the outcries against our Savior become more furious, may our own hearts be ruled by the love of Jesus Christ. And may our witness of mercy and holiness amidst a corrupt generation provoke those in darkness to turn to his great light.
As the purpose of Christmas fills our hearts this season, I pray that many will look at us and say, “I want the joy and peace I see in those people. There must be something to the message they proclaim and exemplify in their lives. I want to know their God.”