Main Character: Isaiah"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
Scripture: Isaiah 1:16b-20; 6:1-13, 9:1-7
Symbol: Tongs with Burning Coal
While visiting family in Florida, we had the opportunity to attend church with my husband's father and stepmother at Church of the Springs. This particular Sunday the youth pastor was going to preach for the first time. My husband, Garrett, is a youth pastor himself, and he made a prediction that instantly came through; he guaranteed there would be some type of bathroom humor. Right at the start of the sermon, the youth pastor introduced himself. "Hi! My name is John. In Hebrew, it means 'God is gracious.' It also means toilet." Point scored for Garrett. :)
Do you know the history behind your name? As parents, we put a lot of thought into the names of our children. Names in Biblical times were often given based on characteristics or promises of God. I love that our last scripture passage today focuses so much on the name of the child that will be given. We are immediately given insight into the characteristics of our Messiah.
Isaiah may be one of the most famous prophets in the Old Testament as he foretells the coming of the Christ child. In fact, he is quoted over 50 times in the New Testament. I am so thankful that Isaiah heard and responded to God's call in his life.
Ponder Points:
- Can you think of a time when you have heard God calling you? Share this experience and how you responded.
- How do we hear God's call?
- Through prayer, study, and others!
- Take some time to look up what your names mean. There are lots of sites on the Internet. You may get a few laughs out of this exercise. Does your personality match what your name means?
- Talk as a family about the four names listed above. What do they mean to you? Can you think of an example of how Jesus fulfilled each one of these names?
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