Welcome to Church of the City, New York's Advent Devotionals.

Jesus was good news in the first century, and he is still good news today.

In the Christmas stories recounted in Scripture, people always responded to Jesus with

amazement and praise. This response came from deep longings and heartbreak being met with God breaking in to

fulfill his promises, offer his forgiveness, bring his justice and peace, and extend his love.

This Christmas, we hope you will have your own encounter with the person of Jesus and the

good news of his birth.

And like those of old,

let your song of praise resound to the world around you.

Today's reading is Isaiah 9, verses 2 to 7. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.

On those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned.

You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy.

They rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing

the plunder.

For as in the day of Midians defeat, you have shattered the yoke

that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior's

boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the

fire. For to us a child is born, to us the son is given, and the government will be on

his shoulders, and he will be called wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting father, prince of peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne

and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice

and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

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