Scripture References: Isaiah 9:1-7; John 1:12; Romans 4:5; 2 Corinthians 1:3
Intro: Good morning. Visiting speaker Tom Shaw observes American enthusiasm, especially around holidays like Christmas. While cultural celebrations (trees, lights, Santa) are common, true Christian enthusiasm stems from the core message: God came to earth as a child. Despite darkness and pain, God dove headlong into our world. Isaiah 9 gives profound reasons for genuine enthusiasm.
Key Points:
- Acknowledging Darkness (vv. 1-2a): Isaiah prophesies to a people "walking in darkness" and the "shadow of death," facing God's judgment and impending exile. God doesn't ignore or minimize the reality of suffering, fear, and sin in the world (then or now). He sees our darkness.
- God Comes INTO Darkness (v. 2b): The core reason for hope: "On those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned." Unlike humans who might withdraw from pain, God moves toward the darkness. He is the "Father of compassion and God of all comfort" (2 Cor 1:3), extending grace even to those deep in sin (like wicked King Ahaz's Judah). He promises rescue when undeserved – the scandal of grace (cf. Rom 4:5).
- God Comes as a CHILD (v. 6a): "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given..." God's rescue plan begins not with overwhelming force, but with vulnerability and gentleness – the incarnation. This counters our focus on "big" things and reminds us God often works in quiet, easily overlooked ways. It also highlights His desire for intimacy.
- The Goal: Adoption as Children (John 1:12): God coming as a child points to His ultimate aim: not just forgiveness, but adopting us into His family. Through faith, we receive the right to become children of God. Our identity shifts; we rest in the Father's love, provision, and plan, just as Jesus, the eternal Son, did. This restores innocence and true joy.
- The Child's Reign (vv. 6b-7): This Child is God ("Mighty God") and brings perfect leadership ("Wonderful Counselor," "Everlasting Father," "Prince of Peace"). His government of peace, justice, and righteousness will have no end, guaranteed by the "zeal of the Lord."
Conclusion: The profound good news, especially relevant at Christmas but true always, is that God enters our darkness with His light. He comes gently, as a child, ultimately to make us His children. This hope – rescue and adoption by the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – is the true, unshakeable reason for Christian enthusiasm.
Call to Action: Acknowledge any darkness you face – God sees it and draws near. Embrace the wonder of God coming as a vulnerable child. Most importantly, receive your identity as a beloved child of God through faith in Jesus. Rest in the Father's love and let this truth fuel deep, lasting enthusiasm.
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