Following the Star

Pause

We have waited long;
Waited in Hope,
Peace,
Joy,
Love.

We celebrate Light,
God’s arrival,
the Nativity.

And still we pray:
Come, Jesus, Come!

Listen

A child is born to us, a son is given to us, and authority will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

There will be vast authority and endless peace for David’s throne and for his kingdom, establishing and sustaining it with justice and righteousness now and forever.

The zeal of the Lord of heavenly forces will do this.

Isaiah 9:6-7

Think

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. These names were prophesied for Christ, the Messiah, who was yet to be born at the time of Isaiah’s writing.

It’s the promise of a Savior who is the ultimate counselor — who comforts, heals, and knows our needs. Mighty above all earthly rulers and fully God. Isaiah compares the Messiah to a father who cares, who has our best interests at heart, and he will be with us for all time. The Messiah is a bringer of peace — peace to our heart and for our soul. He completes who we were made to be.

Even now, Christ knows your needs, can take care of you, has your best interest at heart, and can give your soul peace. Make space today, during the busy holiday season, and connect with the God who has come near through Christ by the presence of the Holy Spirit.

David Loleng

Pray

Lord, I may look to other people or activities or my stuff to satisfy me and make me feel whole. But may I know that you are the only one who can fill my soul. You complete me. Amen.

Go

“Could it be true, this Bethlehem story of a Creator descending to be born on one small planet? If so, it is a story like no other. Never again need we wonder whether what happens on this dirty little tennis ball of a planet matters to the rest of the universe. Little wonder a choir of angels broke out in spontaneous song, disturbing not only a few shepherds but the entire universe.”

Philip Yancey, The Jesus I Never Knew, 2002

Jesus’ coming has changed everything. Because of Jesus we are transformed. As changed people we are called to join with Jesus Christ in the transformation of lives, families, communities, and the world.

Go now into your world; go in Christ Jesus!