"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6-7
My brothers and sisters gathered for a family dinner. Eventually, our conversation veered to our first television and favorite shows like “Leave it to Beaver” and ”Dennis the Menace.” We laughed and discussed the differences in today’s television programing.
We believed that our parents desired us to watch “Father Knows Best” because each episode had a message or built-in moral lesson. Jim Anderson, the father, seemed rock-steady coping with the everyday problems of his growing family during the 60’s.
I would assume, most of our fathers were not like Jim Anderson, or maybe we didn’t even have a father. However, as Christians we have been given the best father now and forever.
How do you feel about the prospect of having God as your Father?
The prophet Isaiah foretells the upcoming arrival of God’s Messiah, the promised deliverer of Old Testament prophecy. There is something marvelous and majestic in His coming that only eyes of faith will see. Isaiah tells us that this “Child”, this “Son” will be born and given unto us. What He is in this verse He is in a relation to us. He came for us for our benefit. He is not just someone’s father – He is our Everlasting Father. Isaiah 9:6 is fulfilled in Jesus who was born so that He would die for our sins. In the birth of Jesus is our redemption, our blessing, our cleansing, and all our hope.
The Everlasting Father’s name refers to God the Son as creator of heaven and earth. As to the Hebrew concept of “Father” there are very few references to God the Father in the Old Testament. This emphasis on God begins with the Son in the New Testament. When people see Jesus – they see the Father. He never drifts away or loses touch with us. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. When the Spirit works in our lives – it’s Jesus working in our lives. Jesus reveals the heart of God.
What kind of relationship do you have with the Everlasting Father?
How has Jesus allowed you to understand better your Everlasting Father?
Come home to your Messiah this Christmas.
For your listening and viewing enjoyment go to Handel’s Messiah Part 1 – Section 12 (Isaiah 9:6).
( Diane French went to be with the Lord on December 1st. Her presence and Words of Encouragement will be missed. "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21 )