Isaiah 9:2-7 (NRSV)
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Verse 2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness- on them light has shined. Verse 3You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. Verse 4For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. Verse 5For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. Verse 6For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Verse 7His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
Devotion
His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace. (Isaiah 9:7a)
When you hear the word shalom, do you, along with many Bible translations, think of "peace?" Shalom means more than this. Shalom happens when everything is working together as God intended. It speaks of wholeness and integration, completeness and harmony. When your six-cylinder car is hitting on all six cylinders, it is in a state of shalom. When even one sparkplug misfires, it affects the smooth operation of the engine.
The church sees the fulfilment of this promise in the birth of Jesus. Think about Syria, Ukraine and the 33 other instances of conflict that currently beset our world. Think how wonderful peace—true peace—would be. And then, contemplate Isaiah’s promise of shalom, where peace is but a byproduct of everything working together for good, and marvel at the richness of God’s promise.
Prayer
God of peace, help me to see that your love stretches beyond my horizons. Amen.