For a child has been born – for us, the gift of a son – for us!
He’ll take over the running of the world.
His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness.
His ruling authority will grow, and there’ll be no limits to the wholeness he brings. Isaiah 9: 6-7
Comment
To be honest, Joseph & Mary don’t look very full of joy in this image. They look exhausted and overwhelmed as if the weight of responsibility has fully taken over. But there’s also a sense of quiet wonder before all the visitors come with joyful celebrations.
It’s easy in the bustle of the season to give a functional ‘nod’ to the ‘reason for the season’ and forget to actually take time out to reflect in ‘quiet wonder’ on all that the birth of this child bought us. We are forgiven, set free in His name and made whole through the ‘Prince of Wholeness’.
What does the birth of this child mean to you as a couple?
Prayer (as a couple)
Spend some time thanking God for what the gift of sending His son means to you.
Prayer (for others)
Pray for another couple who seem caught up in the busyness of the season or are struggling at this time. Pray that they will experience the joy of God at work in their lives.
Final quote
Joy unspeakable joy, An overflowing well, No tongue can tell, Joy unspeakable joy, It rises in my soul, Never lets me go. Chris Tomlin
We love Chris Tomlin’s updated version of the song Joy to the World – you can listen to it here.
