Today's Readings: Isaiah 9:1–6; Psalm 96; Luke 2:1–14
The Kingdom of God comes when the King arrives and claims the rights and privileges he deserves. Ever since the first image-bearers chose rebellion over obedience, nakedness over worship, and self-autonomy over divine care, their descendants have struggled to find peace. They repeatedly exploited and hurt one another. Cain killed his brother Abel, Lamech killed a young man for striking him and it spiraled from bad to worse from there. The world became a dark place and the only thing that could truly set it bright would be the return of God to rule and reign over the hearts and minds of people.
And so the Psalmist sings, “Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; let the whole earth tremble before him. Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns. The world is firmly established; it cannot be shaken. He judges the peoples fairly” (Ps 96:9-10). Isaiah promises, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; a light has dawned on those living in the land of darkness. You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. The people have rejoiced before you as they rejoice at harvest time and as they rejoice when dividing spoils” (Isa 9:2-3).
But both of these texts were looking forward and hoping for the day to come. They were still living in darkness and under oppression waiting for the Kingdom, anticipating the King, hoping for the Child to be born who would be named “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa 9:6).
Finally the day came. Caesar Augustus ruled the whole empire and Quirinius was governing Syria. Joseph left Nazareth in Galilee with his pregnant wife and traveled to the city of David, because they were descendants of King David. The Child about to be born would not provide and protect like his ancestor David. Instead, he would fulfill the promises made by the Psalmists and Prophets. He would bring light into the darkest places and peace to those suffering from oppression. The Child-King would bring glory to God by fulfilling every word spoken and sung about him. His faithfulness would heal our rebellious and self-centered hearts. His Kingdom would finally bring the long-awaited peace.
Merry Christmas, brothers and sisters!
