For to us, a child is born, unto us a Son is given…And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Is 9:6.

How many times during the season of Advent have you heard this verse? How many times have you been like me and read it, and just went through it quickly, knowing it was a prophecy of Jesus’ coming? Have you really looked at it, focusing on each name?

When these words were written by Isaiah, it would be hundreds of years before they would be fulfilled, yet the people of Israel looked for their Messiah to come. Now, thousands of years later, we know Jesus came and often skim over these verses due to familiarity. We are often reminded of these verses at Christmas because of their fulfillment at the birth of Jesus. Looking at a newborn baby, the shepherds had no concept of who Jesus actually was, or what He would do for humanity.

Wonderful Counselor. The word wonderful itself says so much about who Jesus was. Holy, awesome, amazing, not just a baby in a manger. He is our Counselor, who gives us direction, guidance, and insight into His Word.

Mighty God. Powerful. Strong. Above all other names. Just the mention of His name sends the enemy to flight. That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11. All this in a baby in human form. So hard for us to comprehend, but so easy to accept as Lord

Everlasting Father. The Israelites in looking for their Messiah weren’t looking for an eternal Father. They were looking for a king who would release them from the hands of the Romans but He will reign forever and He is not only the Messiah, but part of the triune God, who was, who is, and who is to come. When we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we need to remember He is the everlasting King.

Prince of Peace. He Himself is our peace (Eph. 2:14) in difficulties, uncertainty and turmoil.

A baby, who needed total care by His mother, is the Lord of the universe! Celebrate Who He is this season.

From ministry friend Pam Rehbein.