Today in our Advent series, we turn to a familiar passage from the Old Testament. 

A reading from Isaiah 9: 2-7, for the heart that feels defeated, downtrodden, or dry:

2 

The people walking in darkness

    have seen a great light;

on those living in the land of deep darkness

    a light has dawned.

3 

You have enlarged the nation

    and increased their joy;

they rejoice before you

    as people rejoice at the harvest,

as warriors rejoice

    when dividing the plunder.

4 

For as in the day of Midian’s defeat,

    you have shattered

the yoke that burdens them,

    the bar across their shoulders,

    the rod of their oppressor.

5 

Every warrior’s boot used in battle

    and every garment rolled in blood

will be destined for burning,

    will be fuel for the fire.

6 

For 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.

7 

Of 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.

This is the Word of the Lord.

What stood out to you in this familiar passage? Maybe a word or phrase?

How might this passage provide a glimmer of hope in your particular, personal circumstance?

Which name for Jesus resonates with you during this season? With which name do you most need God to show up?

Oh Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, we come to you today longing for your redemption. For your joy. Your hope. Your peace. Our hearts are heavy. Our waiting seems prolonged. So remind us today of who you are. Remind us that we do not wait alone and we will not wait forever. Your promises will be fulfilled. May we trust that the light will dawn. Amen.