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 (NIV)
Last Saturday, Janice and I went out with some old and new friends. Sometime during lunch, the discussion turned towards the meaning of our names. One of the young ladies' names was Chelsey, which comes from Old English and means “chalk landing place.” It relates to the shipping trade and references the chalk cliffs and ports of call on the River Thames.
Our names are important to us; they were selected because they were significant to our name-givers. Sometimes, like Chelsey (Chelsea), they may reference a place, the name of a relative, or someone else to be honored, or they may have a religious reference. Whatever the reason, our names help to define us.
Some 700 years before the birth of Christ in the little town of Bethlehem and Mary, and Joseph were instructed to give the babe the name of Jesus–meaning “The Lord saves”—but he was given other names, or more accurately titles, that defined his role. Today’s verse conveys the significance of Jesus' coming with titles that reflect His divine nature and purpose:
Wonderful Counselor: Jesus is our guide and advisor, bringing wisdom and counsel beyond human understanding. He is a beacon of truth and guidance, leading us through life's challenges with divine insight.
Mighty God: This title affirms Jesus' divinity and omnipotence. He is not just a mere man, but God incarnate, possessing all the power and might of the Creator. Through Him, we witness God's strength in action, bringing salvation and performing miracles.
Everlasting Father: This denotes His eternal nature and His caring, paternal relationship with us. As an everlasting father, He provides love, protection, and a sense of belonging that transcends time.
Prince of Peace: Jesus brings peace to our hearts and our world. His peace is not temporary or worldly but profound and everlasting, reconciling us with God and each other.
These titles not only define who Jesus is but also what He brings into our lives—wisdom, power, eternal care, and peace. As we reflect on these attributes, we are reminded of the depth and breadth of God's love for us, manifested through Jesus Christ.
As names like Chelsey tell a story of heritage and meaning, Jesus's titles reveal His divine mission and character. His names invite us to explore how He influences our lives and offers us His gifts of wisdom, strength, love, and peace.
Closing Prayer Dear Lord, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, whose names and titles bring us closer to understanding Your love and grace. Help us to embrace His wisdom as our Wonderful Counselor, lean on His strength as our Mighty God, find comfort in His eternal care as our Everlasting Father, and experience the tranquility He offers as our Prince of Peace. May His presence be ever profound in our lives, guiding, protecting, and bringing us closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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