Prince of Peace
by Rachael Stelzer
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For to us a child is born, to us a son is given … And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
Isaiah wrote in a time of war. The people of Israel were involved in wars with conquering nations, frequently with dark results for the Chosen People. The aftermath of a loss in war was destruction, exile, slavery, and harsh reparations. The people truly walked in darkness in these times.
And into this narrative, Isaiah introduces a language of victory. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. And they will rejoice “as warriors rejoice when dividing a plunder”. God is hailed as the one who brings the glorious victory.
‘For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them’ (Isaiah 9:4).
And then, in the ultimate contrast, Isaiah speaks the joy of the birth of a son. A baby who will carry all authority and every title. Not a magnificent military hero but a child who is the Prince of Peace.
The King who will rule his people with righteousness and justice – the Everlasting Father, the Mighty God – will not rule with power and fear but love and peace. Our God humbled himself, and he became completely vulnerable. He became one of us, and he rules us with love, grace and peace.
King Jesus, you rule over this world with righteousness and justice. All glory be to your name. Rule over me with your everlasting love. Amen.
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