by Dr. Urgessa Biru, Director of Light of Hope Ministry Ethiopia
Isaiah lived and ministered during turbulent times in the history of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. As the Assyrian Empire advanced, threatening to overtake them, Isaiah predicted that their fear and despair would be replaced by joy and peace through the authority and leadership of a King called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Like Isaiah’s time, tragic events unfolding around the globe today can overtake us with feelings of hopelessness and despair. Isaiah’s revelation reminds us that complete and lasting peace is only possible through the righteous reign of a divine Messiah, known to us as Jesus Christ.
When we acknowledge Jesus as our King, allowing Him to lead us, we learn that His government is like none we’ve ever known. His Kingdom is one of unending and ever-expanding peace. His leadership is expressed through sacrifice and humility. His justice is enfolded in mercy. We respond to His example by serving as bridge builders and peacemakers in our communities and nations, inviting others into reconciliation and peace with God and one another.
As ambassadors for this King, we’re called to faithfully carry on Isaiah’s ministry of prophetic proclamation. So many people still don’t know the Good News of God’s Kingdom of peace and are held captive by despair and fear. As we look to Christ’s second coming with hope, we must declare to the world that the peace we all so desperately desire is found in Him alone.
Take time today to reflect on lyrics from the Advent hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” Make it your prayer on behalf of all who are waiting for Emmanuel—Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
O come, Desire of nations, bind / All peoples in one heart and mind / Bid envy, strife, and discord cease / Fill the whole world with heaven’s peace / Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel / Shall come to thee, O Israel
Read more from our Advent devotional series.
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