Jesus Comes with Power

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. (Isaiah 9:4, ESV)

On our life’s journey we can struggle with living as freed, unburdened people. Physical enslavement and earthly enemies were not the only conditions the people of God knew and experienced during Isaiah’s day. Assyria was a strong, formidable enemy but it was not the only enemy. Just like today their enemies were also of the unseen nature, the forces of evil and darkness. That’s why God’s prophetic word through Isaiah concerning a Savior, Liberator, Justice and Righteousness was so powerful and breathtaking. To be sure, their Savior was coming. The One who would give release, who would break the cruel oppressor’s rod, take off the heavy yokes, and make the staff used to keep them in line, powerless and ineffective.

Jesus is our Savior, our Liberator, our Justice and Righteousness too. He came and still comes, enters lives, situations, and circumstances where there is any kind of enslavement. He comes to set prisoners of every kind, free. Today we have the awesome insight of knowing that that tiny baby we see in the manger at Christmas is not helpless or fragile as he appears, already as an infant he has all power in his hands and is the change agent needed to set us free from oppression, strongholds, and heavy yokes. The baby came and grew up and set us free. Let’s Pray

Different times, Lord, but the need to experience the ministry and salvation of Jesus in our lives is the same. Many are still living in oppression and enslaved, the intent of enemies still sees their fruit in many lives. May we receive Christ and experience freedom and salvation. Amen

Reflective Questions for Soul-Tending:

How does today’s message (comfort, encourage, strengthen) you?

How will you apply today’s message into your plan of soul-care?