Isaiah 9:6, "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."

Think

"It's the most wonderful time of the year." That's what the song says. However, the joy that this time of year is meant to bring is ironically replaced with intense stress for many. In our efforts to create the perfect setting to experience "the Reason for the season," we find ourselves missing it altogether. And let's face it, the reality of living through 2020 doesn't help to set the stage either. Where is this peace and joy we keep hearing about?

If we think about the nativity scene, it wasn't what we would consider an ideal setting for the first Christmas either. And yet, in the middle of the chaos of an unexpected birth, in a dirty stable, there lay a baby in a feeding trough who was the very definition of peace and joy - the Messiah.

Who is this Child that caused wise men and shepherds to seek Him out to worship Him? The prophet Isaiah described Him with names that should stop us in our tracks and give us reasons to praise our Savior:

Wonderful Counselor - Jesus is the amazing, awe-inspiring Guide who helps to make sense of our lives.

Mighty God - He gives us the strength to live the life He's called us to live.

Everlasting Father - He was, is, and always will be our Heavenly Father. He's a father to the fatherless.

Prince of Peace - Jesus is the one who helps us find peace amid chaos.

With a renewed perspective, be in awe of Jesus. Let's take time to celebrate and worship The Messiah like never before. After all, ornaments, lights, and presents might be festive, but our Lord is the real Reason for the season!

Act

Let's really prepare for Christmas. Stop and meditate on Isaiah's descriptions of Jesus right now. Be amazed by the fact that He stepped down from Heaven for you. Let Him be the Prince of Peace in your life to calm the chaos. Let Him embrace your heart and strengthen you. At this moment, let Him fill your heart to overflowing with the peace and joy only He can bring. Now, share that overflow with others today.

Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Recognizing Him as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace stops me in my tracks. I can't help but worship You. Lord, fill my heart with the overflowing peace and joy that only You can bring. Help me share that with others who also need to be reminded of the Reason for the season. In Jesus' name, Amen.