Isaiah 9:1-6

"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has shined. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given. And his name will be: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace."

The prophet proclaims the coming of the ideal king, who will bring an end to war and provide justice for all the peoples of the earth. Jews have read these words as a promise that has yet to be fulfilled. Christians have read these words as fulfilled in Jesus Christ. But even Christians acknowledge that the reign of Christ is not yet complete, so both Jews and Christians together may look forward to the fulfillment of God's promise of peace and justice in our world.

This text is well-known to us because of Handel's "Messiah." The oratorio includes a dark baritone solo with the words, "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light." And the chorus sings, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders, and his name will be called Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." What marvelous music for Christmas Day!

Grace and peace...Bob