For Unto Us a Child is Born 

This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. —Isaiah 9:6

Who would come to save the world? A powerful ruler? A mighty warrior? A skilled politician? Any of these expectations would make sense. But, God decided that Jesus would enter the world scene, just as we all have done, as a baby. As an adult, Jesus did not seek a political office. He did not come to overthrow governments. He came in obedience to do the will of His Heavenly Father. Through his obedience, and by His death and resurrection, He was proved to be the Son of God.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh; 
Come peasant, king to own Him. 
The King of Kings salvation brings; 
Let loving hearts enthrone Him. 
This, this is Christ the King 
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing. 
Haste, haste to bring Him laud, 
The Babe, the Son of Mary. 
(from What Child is This?)

The angel Gabriel told Mary, "You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." Luke 1:31-33

We celebrate Christmas as the coming of Jesus, the Son of God, whom the Scriptures say will reign forever and ever.

GOING DEEPER: 

  1. In what ways has Jesus been a Wonderful Counselor to you?
  2. How has He been the Prince of Peace in your life?
  3. What examples from Jesus' life can you think of that demonstrate He was a different kind of leader than what the world was accustomed to experiencing?

FAMILY TIME:
Use the content above to have a family discussion. On a plain sheet of paper (maybe one in typical Christmas colors) use a marker to write the words, "Welcome Jesus!" at the top. Then, as a family, make a list of all of the things that made Jesus special. For example, one item on the list might be "He healed the sick." Another might be, "He was humble and gentle." When completed, post the list in a place where the entire family can be easily reminded of Jesus, the Son of God, whose coming we celebrate at Christmas.

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