The prophet Isaiah promised the people, those walking in darkness and living in a dark land, that a great light would shine upon them. They needed this promise of light, and it’s easy to understand why. At the time of Isaiah’s preaching, the people of God were in a period of great turmoil, uncertainty, and darkness. The Kingdom of Israel was facing threats of invasion fromneighboring nations, which brought about political instability, conflict, and the fear of war and its consequences. Rather than turning to God, the people were stuck in sin, idolatry, and in need of redemption. There was nothing the people could really do to pull themselves out of this darkness. A light would have to come to save them. Isaiah promised that a child would be born who would embody this light. This child would bring peace, and His rule would be characterized by the increase of peace. Not only was this child Israel’s hope through their current period in history, but in fact this would be the child promised to rule over the throne of David, the seed promised ages ago through whom the world would be blessed. Though we don’t face the threat of invasion from our neighboring countries, certainly we live in the midst of darkness. One deep look inside our hearts and minds will be enough to help us recognize our need for light and peace. If that is not enough, one deep dive in the day’s news ought to be convincing. There is conflict, uncertainty, and fear all around. There are idols and sin in our hearts that hold us in darkness. 49
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