A New Hope

Jesus was born into a world that was divided – torn apart by war, economic hardships, and the silence of God. The people placed their hope more in a political savior than God. They wanted a savior who would bring political and economic freedoms. The night Jesus was born, it was not a silent night – it was a world of turmoil, frustration, and no hope. Sound familiar?

We live in a world much like the one into which Jesus was born. His birth brought forth the gift of hope. Hope that we can have a future. Hope that our current circumstances are not reflective of our eternal promise.

Christmas is a celebration of this hope that was brought forth in a tiny child.

 

“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)

Our hope is not in the promise itself, but in the God who gives us the promise. A God who reached out and gave himself in human flesh. Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor, our Mighty God, our Everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace. He is our new hope.

What a great reason we have to rejoice this Christmas season – and all year long!