1Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan—- P120
6For 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.
7Of 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.
- P121
Zebulun and Naphtali, located in the northernmost part of Israel, receive the prophetic promise of the long-awaited Messiah. This region, referred to as "Galilee of the nations," or "Galilee of the Gentiles," is where Jesus spent most of His time and ministry. The fact that Gentiles outnumbered Jews in this region speaks of the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to bless all the peoples of the earth through Abraham’s seed. - P122
The light of Christ often shines most brightly in the darkest places. This is nothing less than God’s great grace, mercy, and love. - P122
As you celebrate the birth of the Savior this Christmas season, remember darkness has been defeated by the light of lights, Jesus.- P122
Through Isaiah‘s prophecy, God proclaims the birth of a child to whomrulership will be given. He will come from the line of David and His reignwill be an eternal reign of justice and righteousness. Laid in a feeding troughfor animals, the child born that night in Bethlehem is the Son of God. ThisSon, Isaiah reminds us, is "given." The God and Creator of the universe is agiver. This is His nature, and this is why we can count on His governmentand kingdom. - P122
Unlike the kingdoms of this world, it is one of everlastingjustice, righteousness, and peace. Whatever the state of our lives and theworld this Christmas, we can be certain that this promise from God‘s holyWord will come to pass.- P122
"Those who walk in the light now will walk in Jesus‘s final triumph over darkness."
-Jonathan Dodson- P122
His light defeats all darkness, and His hope heals all brokenness. Just as Je-sus is our light, we as Christians are called to be a light in the lives of others.
God instructs us to bless, encourage, uplift, and care for those around us.
In doing so, we reflect His love to the hurting and shine His light into thedarkness. How can you be a beacon of God‘s light today?- P123
Dear God, thank you for the gift of Your Son and the promise of His return and reign. Help me learn to trust Your wisdom, which often appears so foolish in the eyes of the world. Most of all, grant me the courage to walk in it. In Jesus’ name, amen.- P123
