Members of one of our adult Sunday school classes invited us to join them on a tour of a nearby courthouse. The courthouse was built in the 1920s with an open, three-storied central stairwell complete with a dome of stained glass. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations. But over time this amazing building began to show signs of age.
Then our guide explained how they had recently renovated the courthouse, restoring it to its original beauty after the years had taken their toll on the building. The beauty that had faded was restored, the incredible splendor of the work was brought back.
This prophecy from Isaiah is a prediction of hope and joy for the Israelites. The family line of their greatest kings would be restored, the former glory brought back. In fact the past glory would be exceeded. Who is Jesse? What will the Messiah be blessed with?
The part that Jesse plays in the history of Israel begins in 1 Samuel 16. This is the story of Jesse’s son, David, being selected to be king. And David will grow to be one of the greatest kings ever. We then learn in the genealogy presented in Matthew 1:1-16 that Jesus is a descendent of Abraham, of Isaac, of Jesse, of David, and so on.
This prophecy is a message of restoration. This great line of leaders will again bring forth another great king, Jesus Christ. Jesus will be born and will be the everlasting Father, the Son of the Most High. And through this lineage we see the eternal nature of God.
God has blessed His children from the beginning, from the time of Abraham, down through the centuries. And His blessings continue with Christ. In fact, the blessings will exceed the past blessings.
The celebration of Christmas is a celebration of the everlasting love that God, the Father, has for all who believe in Him. It is an eternal love that stretches back over the centuries and also covers the days to come.
The baby born in Bethlehem is our eternal Father, the very image of God. He is an expression of love that transcends all time, that existed in the past, exists now, and will be with us forever.
Let us be reminded this holiday season of the eternal love that God has for us.
DAILY CHALLENGE: How can God restore you with His love this Christmas?
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