Advent Devotionals by Kathleen Schwartz December 8 – Royal Titles

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us.  And the government will rest on his shoulders.  These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  His ever expanding, peaceful government will never end.  He will rule forever with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David.  The passionate commitment of the Lord Almighty will guarantee this!”  Isaiah 9:6-7

Celebrating Advent and Christmas is never complete without looking at the prophecies written 700 years before the birth of Jesus.  These words have been put to music, read from pulpits, and memorized throughout the ages.

My question when reading familiar portions of scripture or singing familiar songs is: how can they have meaning and inspiration to us personally even if we hear them for the 100^th time?  So as I apply it to my Zambian context, I can make them into a prayer/psalm.  Maybe you can do the same for your situation.

You are our Wonderful Counselor,

giving us wisdom in the decisions we make for our Village of Hope and our School of Hope.

You are our Mighty God,

doing miraculous things to bring us to the Great North Road,

providing building materials,

sending partners from around the world.

You are our Everlasting Father,

loving us as only you can,

promising life forever with You.

You are our Prince of Peace,

giving peace that passes understanding even in the challenges we face.

May the children in our care in the Village and at the School come to know you as their

                  Wonderful Counselor,

                  Mighty God,

                  Everlasting Father, and

                  Prince of Peace.