A Christmas Meditation on Isaiah 9:2–7
On this Christmas Day we gather to reflect on the ancient yet ever-living words of the prophet Isaiah, spoken centuries before the birth of Christ. Isaiah chapter 9 invites us to behold the faithfulness of God and the fulfilment of his promises in Jesus Christ, the Light of the world and the Prince of Peace.
In verse 2 we read:
«The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.»
Pause for a moment and consider the darkness, both then and now. Ours is a world marked by sorrow and despair, and longing for hope.
Isaiah speaks of a weary people waiting for salvation. Into that darkness God causes his light to shine. That light is Christ. He shows us the way and opens before us the hope of new life.
This is why we began our worship by singing Joy to the World. It is not merely a festive song, but a declaration of hope. Christ has come to restore the light and joy that humanity had lost.
In verse 6 Isaiah proclaims:
«For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.»
Here we glimpse the beauty and depth of God’s plan. A child, born in humility, bears the weight of the world’s salvation. This child is no ordinary child, but the eternal Son of God, given to us in love. Upon his shoulders rest not only the destiny of nations, but also the burden of our sin, suffering and brokenness. He is the Saviour we need, and for this reason our hearts are filled with joy today.
Isaiah continues:
«And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.»
These names reveal who Christ is and what he has come to do. He guides us with divine wisdom, overcomes all evil by his power, loves us with an everlasting love, and reconciles us to God. In him we find rest for our souls and a sure hope for the world. That is why there is joy in our hearts today.
Finally, verse 7 declares:
«Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.»
At Christmas is good to remember that, with Christ comes an everlasting kingdom. It is not a kingdom shaped by worldly power, but it breaks into our lives and transforms both hearts and communities. His reign is marked by justice, mercy and righteousness. Christmas reminds us that this kingdom has drawn near in Jesus, and that we are called to live as its citizens, bearing witness to his love and peace.
A Call to Respond
May the message of Isaiah draw us closer to Christ. Let us receive him as the light in our darkness, the Saviour of our lives, and the Lord of our way. May his peace rule in our hearts and his mission shape our actions. And let us share this good news with those around us, so that they too may know the joy and the light that Christ brings. Let us share this joy today.
A Christmas Prayer
Heavenly Father,
we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, the light who shines in the darkness and the fulfilment of your promises. In Him we find wisdom, strength, love and peace. This Christmas, fill our hearts with gratitude for his birth and for the hope he brings. Help us to live as citizens of his eternal kingdom, reflecting his justice, righteousness and mercy in all that we do. May we proclaim his name with joy, that others may see your light and share in your salvation.
In the precious name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
