His Name Is...

Devotion by: Pastor Paul Gysan

Isaiah 9:1-6

¹But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.
²The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined.
³You have multiplied the nation,
you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you
as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
⁴For the yoke of their burden,
and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
⁵For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
⁶For a child has been born for us,
a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named
Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

It’s the dawn of a new day! Many households are up early today, with anticipation of seeing the gifts Santa Claus has left. As a youngster my brother and I had flashlights ready, journeying even in the darkness to see gifts we received.

It’s a dawn of a new day! Jesus the light of the world is born. For centuries people “sat in darkness” but now is the dawn of a new day! A name was given to this child – Jesus. The name fully describes his purpose, for he has come into the darkness of the world to save people from their sin. Jesus is his name! This savior has four descriptive attributes: “wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, prince of peace.” Amid corrupt rulers, Jesus’ rule and counsel would signify that a new day has dawned!

Which of these attributes best fit Jesus as you know him? Has Jesus been to you a counselor bringing enlightenment and help, lifting you out of darkness into the dawn of a new day? Is Jesus for you a “divine hero” who stands above all earthly heroes in giving his life on the cross for you? Is Jesus like an everlasting father, one there to comfort, support, and guide you? Is Jesus like a “prince of peace” who offers security amid the turmoil of this world?

It’s the dawn of a new day! The gift of Jesus was given to you and me. Rise and greet this day with thanksgiving and joy, for Jesus is His name, and he is the light of the world, “wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Merry Christmas!

Prayer: O God, thank you for the gift of Jesus who lights up my life! I celebrate a new day that has dawned, for my Savior has been born! God, this gift came from you, but it has my name on it. I’m so thankful for this gift. Help me to daily unwrap anew the power of Jesus’ presence, and live in the light of God’s grace. What a joyous day this day. Happy Birthday Jesus! Amen!!!