Christmas Memories

When you think of Christmas memories, what comes to mind for you?

Growing up I went to a parochial school until 8th grade and every Christmas we participated in a Christmas program for our church. One year I was excited because I was selected to play Mary, this meant all I had to do was walk baby Jesus down the aisle and hold Him while everyone else recited their part. Let me just say that was the highlight of my acting career lol. All the other years I had various speaking roles that consisted of reciting various Bible verses, singing various songs & hymns. There is one verse in particular that has the ability to transport me back to those younger days on Christmas Eve, and it is Isaiah 9:6. Every time I hear this verse, I picture myself standing up in front of our church, nervously reciting those very words.

Isaiah 9:6 NIV

"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."

Of course, I have lots of other wonderful Christmas memories as well, but this Christmas I wanted to reflect on Jesus' birth and how His life still impacts us, even today.

When Isaiah prophesied about Jesus being born, it was amid the Assyrian invasion. Isaiah stated that the Messiah would establish justice and righteousness in the land (Isaiah 9:7). As you read the four names given to Him, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace which name resonates with you and why?

Wonderful Counselor - Isaiah prophesied a promise of hope to Israel through the birth of Jesus. As I reflect on this name, I am reminded of all the wonders and miracles He performed not only throughout the Bible, but even in our lifetime as well. Jesus taught with authority; He is incomprehensible. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV tells us that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Job replied to the Lord in Job 42:2-3 NIV by saying: "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge?' Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know." How true this is, we cannot possibly understand all that God has planned for us. But I am grateful for the guidance He gives us through Jesus' teachings and through the Holy Spirit.

Mighty God - God is omnipotent. Meaning, He is all powerful. His strength is beyond our comprehension. God's Word in Isaiah 41:10 says that we can draw strength from Him.

Everlasting Father - means "father of eternity" Colossians 1:16 NIV tells us "For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him."

Prince of Peace - The Messiah established peace between God and man. John 14:27 says "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Take time to reflect on additional passages regarding His peace: John 16:33; Philippians 4:6-7; Romans 5:1-8; Colossians 3:15-17; Psalm 34:14; Hebrews 12:1-3, 11, 14-15.

Every Christmas I encourage you to reflect on the true meaning of Jesus' birth and how His life impacted those around Him in such a profound way and how His life teachings still apply to our lives today.

Jude 1:2 NIV

"Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance."

I pray you will have a peaceful and Merry Christmas!

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime