Jesus Is

Jesus Is

Advent Devotional Guide
Monday, December 4, 2023

“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. 

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.”  ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The Israelites longed for a king. They were weary of being attacked from all sides and from being taken captive to foreign lands. In asking God for a king, though, they had one thing in mind and God had another. God’s plan was far superior to what they could ask for or imagine. 

Again in this prophecy of Isaiah we see evidence of the Trinity and of the eternal nature of our Lord. 

• Mighty God
• Everlasting Father
• Wonderful Counselor
• Prince of Peace 
• eternal ruler

But because the Israelites were looking for an earthly king, they pretty much missed it when Jesus was born. His arrival was quiet — no pomp and circumstance. His environment was meager — the home of a common laborer. Nothing about Jesus’ arrival was particularly special or spectacular as might be expected for royalty. 

I used to marvel at the Israelites. I just didn’t understand why they didn’t recognize all the signs and fulfilled prophecies played out before them. How could they miss them?

But then I realized that I am no different than they. I am just as overwhelmed with and blinded by current events. To my defense, the Lord said that no one can possibly know when He will return. So I’m not alone. Still — I feel pretty clueless. 

So here are some questions. Have we fully embraced Jesus’ initial arrival as God-man? Have we accepted Him as Lord of our lives? Are we living our lives in anticipation that today could be the day that he comes back? 

Lord, thank you for showing yourself to us as Father, Counselor and Prince. Help us to live victoriously under your rule. And help us to live today as if it might be our last — sharing your good news to everyone we meet so that they, too, may be ready for your second coming.