The Saviour
It’s almost December and we’re beginning to see lights, decorated trees and manger scenes everywhere. But Christmas is about more than a baby and some shepherds. Over the next few weeks we’re going to look at the significance of Christmas according to Isaiah.
Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles, which lies along the road that runs between the Jordan and the sea, will be filled with glory. Isaiah 9:1
Israel had been invaded by a foreign power as God’s punishment for their collective sins. Through Isaiah God warned Judah that they would suffer the same fate if they continued unrepentant in their sins.
But even before they were exiled to Babylon, God gave Isaiah a message of hope to take to His people. Isaiah 9:1 begins one of the most famous prophecies in which God promised to send them a saviour, the Messiah, who would bring light to rescue them from the darkness.
But that light would not be what they expected.
Rather than freedom from political oppression, it would bring freedom from the darkness of sin.
Rather than a warrior from Jerusalem, it would be a carpenter’s son from Galilee, a land ruled by Gentiles and hated by Jews.
Rather than immediate, It would be over 700 years later.
Rather than just for them it would be for all mankind for all eternity.
The significance of Christmas is that Jesus brought us salvation. With Jesus’ birth the way to freedom was opened for all who accept Him. He will carry us through whatever comes our way, and one day He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. (Revelations 21:4)
Keep Seeking the Kingdom!
Heather Penner
Youth Ministries Director