September 18 – Prophecy

September 18 – Prophecy
Isaiah 7:14; 9:6

What do you suppose those who heard Isaiah’s words thought?

“The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel (God with us)” (Isaiah 7:14).

“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” (Isaiah 9:6).

In hindsight, we have come to associate these words with the birth of Jesus Christ, but when Isaiah first spoke them; they had no Messiah to look to, there seemed to be no hope.  Isaiah’s words offered hope for the future; a future when all of Israel would be reunited under one king.  A child would be born to Judah and would bring peace. When that peace came it would last forever and ever.

Every Christmas these words ring out across the world as we remember that the birth of Christ was prophesied long before it happened. Matthew 1:23 reiterates the words of Isaiah 7:4 when he tells the story of Joseph and his concerns regarding Mary’s conception before they had even begun living together in the same home. The angel assured him that the child was the Lord’s and Joseph should take responsibility for the mother and the child.

We know that the child has come. He grew into a man and offered his life on the cross. While the world might not know peace, we can know it within ourselves and one day, He will return and peace will come for all eternity.

Jesus said, “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.” (John 14:27)