Interesting that the next title or name given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6-7 is Everlasting Father.  When we think of God in Christian circles we think of ONE God in three persons:  Father, Son (Jesus) and Holy Spirit.  When Isaiah wrote about the coming Messiah, he referred to Him as Everlasting Father.  How can the Son, be the Father?  That's a great question!  The reason the Son can be referred to as the Father was answered by Jesus, who told us in John's Gospel, "The Father and I are one."

I don't pretend to fully understand one tenth of one percent about God.  He is infinite.  We are finite.  He is all powerful. My power is extremely limited.  Yet, it seems reasonable to assume that if there is only one God as the Bible clearly teaches, and if that one God expresses Himself in three persons as the Bible also teaches us, then it makes sense that each "person" in the Godhead reflects the other, and can be referred to as the other.  While Jesus made it clear that He was distinct from God the Father in many ways, when it came down to it, Jesus said, "The Father and I are one."

What difference does it make to us that the Messiah is the Everlasting Father?  All the difference in the world!  Jesus wasn't just a great guy.  Jesus wasn't just an amazing teacher.  Jesus wasn't just able to perform miracles.  Jesus was and IS God.  That statement may confuse us.  It has offended many, even caused folks to question whether it's possible. As we've said all week, though, Jesus demonstrated the attributes of God in His life, because He IS God.  He is the Savior and Lord of all.  When we believe that, and trust Him to be Savior and Lord in our lives, a lifelong process of change the Bible calls "sanctification" takes place.  That process, under the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit leads us to become more and more like Jesus.  That's the goal.  By God's grace in Jesus, and the indwelling power of His Spirit it becomes more and more our reality.  Wow!  What a promise and what a Savior!

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving us so much that You came in the form of Your Son, Jesus, EVERLASTING FATHER in human form, so we could understand who You truly are.  Fill us with Your Holy Spirit that we may live in such a way as to reveal You to those around us.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.