“But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil.” – Isaiah 9:1-3
The holiday season is meant to bring joy, happiness, and comfort. We sing songs like Joy to the World and Good Christian Men, Rejoice! But honestly, some seasons don’t feel that way. You may be filled with more discouragement or despair than you want to admit.
How do you celebrate Christmas when your heart is heavy?
The people of Judah knew how you feel. The nation of Israel suffered under invasion from Assyria, and the people of Judah watched Israel scatter to the wind. It was in the aftermath of Israel’s captivity that Isaiah wrote these words in chapter nine. Verse two stands out, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.”
The spiritual gloom of Israel’s judgment in chapter eight is dispelled forever as Isaiah introduces this message of a Savior. After enduring centuries plagued by evil kings, a corrupt culture, and a broken people, Isaiah shares the first flicker of real hope. Isaiah tells God’s people, “It will not always be this way. You will no longer be in anguish. You will find refuge from distress, fear, and pain.”
God is the Lord over discouragement. When we begin thinking our situation is hopeless, our sins unforgivable, or our future beyond redemption, God reminds us of our Savior. He reminds us how His grace extends beyond our capacity for sin. His voice speaks to our souls with veil-thin closeness. Your situation may not change overnight, but the warming coals of joy can kindle in your heart again.
Isaiah’s words in verse three speak to the future celebration: “You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil.”
In this passage, God further tells His people that He is bringing joy into their future. They will increase in joy. They will rejoice as at harvesttime with abundance and richness in life. They will be glad, like victors who conquered an enemy.
How is that possible? Because the Light of the world, Jesus our Savior, dawned on His creation. Those of us who trod the many mental miles of depression, anxiety, insecurity, doubts, and uncertainty can finally see the Light shining into our darkness. We see our mighty Savior drawing us close and whispering through his nail-pierced hands, “It is finished. I’ve already conquered whatever disappointment, discouragement, or despair you can imagine. Stay in My light and find your rest in Me, weary soul.”
That is the hope of heaven. That song erupted amongst the angels over shepherds watching their flocks outside Bethlehem. In that darkness, the message of good news and great joy shook people out of their slumber.
And it’s the choice you face today. Will you sink into despair and darkness, believing your life and purpose are beyond the reach of God?
Or, will you trust that God is shining His light of salvation into your life and preparing a better future for you?
- Where are you feeling discouraged, disappointed, or even despair today?
- What are some instances where God showed Himself faithful to you in times of darkness?
- How can you invite God to share more light and hope in your life today?
God, You are Lord over disappointment, discouragement, and despair. You see what I’m facing right now, whether life-shaking or simply a slight setback, and it all matters to You. Help me sense your peace and closeness in my life today. Give me eyes to see how you share the Light of Christ in my everyday interactions. Let me reflect the hope of heaven to others this Christmas season. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
