All I want for Christmas . . . is hope. You too?
It doesn’t seem reasonable to look back to the ancient pages of Isaiah to find hope for today . . . but I do. Isaiah’s connection to the story of Jesus is all over Advent.
Even his name means “Yahweh saves” and foretells the Christmas story.
For a child shall be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
The prophet of new beginnings gives me hope at the end of a very difficult year because the weight of glory rests within the names to bring fresh hope.
I read the first few of the 66 chapters and can be overcome by woes. A little like reading the headlines of today. Same nations – same troubles. But, Isaiah strings holy words of hope together to tell a tangled world there can be a confident expectation – one of restoration, renewal and comfort.
And it’s still the Messiah, over 2700 years later, who first came to Bethlehem earth with a prophecy, a star and a song, gifts and kneeling.
So, was nothing changed by Christmas and Easter?
Everything was – Christmas is not Christmas without the message of the resurrection.
Immanuel, God is with us. The comfort within a difficult year.
So, may the breath of heaven cover you and the coming year. I thank each one of you for your continued concern, emails and kind comments. Thank you for taking the time this year to visit Encouraging Women One Story at a Time!
Verna
Linda Sirianni says
December 22, 2015 at 10:19 pmThank you, Verna, for the message of hope. May the Lord Jesus guide you and lead you this coming year as He has always done. You are an encouragement to each one of us in the group as you continue to trust Him in the midst of the storm. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas season.
Verna Bowman says
December 23, 2015 at 7:21 amYes,our Shepherd and Strength – and blessings for you and your family, Linda!
Nelda Metzler says
December 23, 2015 at 7:28 amMorning Verna,
Thanks again for your meaningful words. God is good all the time and we continue to rejoice in these words.
At this Christmas season may we seek Him, find Him, and adore Him. May Peace, Blessings and Good Health be yours this coming year.
Christmas Light and Love, Nelda
Verna Bowman says
December 23, 2015 at 7:02 pmThe Christmas light and love that dispels the darkness is worthy of our adoration – God’s blessing on you and the coming year, dear Nelda . . .
Marlene Bagnull says
December 23, 2015 at 7:41 amFather, thank You for Verna – for the precious gift of her friendship and hard-won wisdom. Thank You for the words of hope she writes.
Verna Bowman says
December 29, 2015 at 6:01 pmAnd Father thank you for the encouraging friends you place in our lives – love you, Marlene!
Glenda Mills says
December 23, 2015 at 7:09 pmOh yes Verna, we will not fail to believe and rest in the author of the hope of our salvation and each day of the year. Christmas blessings to you and Jeff!
Verna Bowman says
December 29, 2015 at 6:02 pmEach day of the year – our Hope. Blessings on you and Dave this coming year, Glenda.