For unto us a child is born. Unto us a son is given and the government will be upon His shoulders. Isaiah 9:6

During one of the darkest times in the history of Israel, a prophecy was given by the prophet Isaiah. He foretells of a coming Messiah. This prophecy was to bring hope and encouragement to the people. It was a hope that said, God is with us – do not be discouraged with what you now see and hear.

This prophecy let them know that the Messiah would be among them as a man – a man who wore flesh and blood, but yet was the Son of God. Yes, He was God – God among them!

This Word was one they could carry with them. They could share it with their children and neighbors. And they would continue to share this prophecy throughout the coming years. For they trusted this word from Isaiah and knew that Israel would continue. Israel would have a champion – God Himself would come and defeat their enemies. Enemies of war, enemies of hunger and poverty and all enemies of defeat!

And the government will be upon His shoulders! That’s all they needed to hear. Many words were spoken by this prophet and others. But this word – a word of encouragement and hope was to bring them victory – yes, victory in all things!

Today, even today for us, we still have this encouragement and hope. For Unto us a child was born. Unto us a son was given – our God, our Savior, Jesus Christ.

He, today, is there for each one of us – if we reach out and receive this word – for as the gospel of John shares, He IS the Word made flesh – for you, for me – for the World!