Give 3

Isaiah 9:6-7

Last year we gave our daughter a Nintendo DS. It is a hand-held game device, something she can carry with her almost everywhere and play games. At first it may appear to be one of those devices which foster being isolated and alone. She can be entertained all by herself.

But one interesting part of the game device is that most of the games can be shared with others who also have a Nintendo DS. If someone else has a device and the same game the game can be shared. One of the games she was given is also a game that others can play when our daughter isn’t using the DS.

Because of that Peggy and our son have been involved in the game, and their involvement has fostered times of sharing and talking.

From this small game device that seems like an isolated object, sharing and fun has spread and spread and spread over time.

The prophet Isaiah had predicted the coming of the Messiah, presenting a message of hope and anticipation to the faithful. What gift was expected? What are the titles given to Jesus? What was expected of Jesus?

The baby prophesied in Isaiah was not a person who would appear briefly and then be lost over time. This Messiah who was anticipated would become a great and powerful influence. The baby born in Bethlehem would grow to be the Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace for all who believe. He was the Mighty God who would become a very part of who we are.

The gift of Jesus was an everlasting gift, not something temporary. The gift of a Savior would impact all of life and all who believed from that time on into eternity.

The gift we celebrate at Christmas is not a gift just for one day or one year or even one lifetime. The gift of Christ is a gift for all time. And the gift of God’s love is not a gift we selfishly cling to. It is a gift of love and peace that has no end, a gift to be shared with all.

DAILY CHALLENGE: What can you do to be part of the increase of Christ’s government and peace?

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