Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus at this this time of the year we hear again the prophecy of the impending birth in Isaiah. Wow such a large gift in one package! So many titles for one person but many times in our lives we have experienced each on of these titles. We have seen the Wonderful in creation of our families and in times of Joy in our lives. We have relied many times on the title of Counselor in the many challenging times of life health and sickness, surgery troubles at work etc. In the title of Counsellor we have found much support when we needed it most. We have seen Mighty God in Nature whether mountains, seas or storms, etc.; we have seen the Mighty and have been in awe. So much strength can be gleaned in the Everlasting Father title. There is not much in this physical world that lasts forever and yet you are called the “Everlasting Father” , time before us and after us. And finally, Prince of Peace. Wow does this world need Peace both here in North America and around the world Peace is needed. But we also need Peace in our personal Lives. At this time of year when gifts are given and received, we are so blessed in our spiritual lives to know that in one single birth one person could bring all these Titles and Gifts. for this we need to be thankful. Help us to reflect on this at this time of year.
Thank you, God, for this Christmas time when we can slow down from normal routine for a bit and spend time with family and friends. We anticipate the magic of the season as we gather close to home and friends. Please help us not to take this for granted. B e with all those who are travelling as well at this time of year.
God, we ask that you be with those of our group who may be experiencing loneliness at this time of year. We have had members of our Church family who have passed on in this past year and for their families it may be a difficult time. Hold those close who are experiencing loss and loneliness of a spouse, father, mother, family member. May the feel your peace and grace at this time of year.
We also ask for Peace at this time of year for our Politicians whether locally, provincially, or nationally . May they govern with integrity, responsibility and good Character. In particular we pray for our federal leaders as they sort out the confusion and unrest that is happening in our National capital. Give them clarity of mind.
We are thankful for answered prayers in health concerns here at WMC.
We want to lift up our Households of Faith this week as well.
Thank-you God for the Prayer requests that have been made known. We also pray that you be with those who have not shared but have concerns. You are all knowing and you know our thoughts even when not shared so we ask that you hear those as well.
As we anticipate Christmas time and all that goes with it may we take time to reflect again on the Birth of Jesus and all that it means both in time past , present and future. In the busyness of the season may we find time to pause, find Joy and Celebrate the Reason for the Season.
In your name we ask it
Amen .