WEEK 1 | DECEMBER 1, 2024 | HOPE
READ
Isaiah 9:2–7
[2] The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,
on them has light shone.
[3] You have multiplied the nation;
you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you
as with joy at the harvest,
as they are glad when they divide the spoil.
[4] For the yoke of his burden,
and the staff for his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
[5] For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult
and every garment rolled in blood
will be burned as fuel for the fire.
[6] For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
[7] Of the increase of his government and of peace
there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
CONSIDER
When you think about Christmas, what sights and sounds come to mind? What does this passage tell us about the sights and sounds of Christmas?
What name of Jesus stands out to you in this passage as hopeful? Why?
Who in our life might need the hope of Christ this Christmas? How can you share it with them?
PRAY
“Our Father in Heaven, thank You for sending your Son, Jesus, to bring light and hope into our darkness. Fill us with hope as we look to Jesus, and help us share that hope with others this Christmas. In Jesus’ name, amen.”