Names of Christ: Who Do You Say That I Am?

For to us a child is born,
    to us a 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.

Isaiah 9:6

Whenever I hear this name for Christ, I think of (or more accurately sing) the lyrics to Handel’s Messiah: For Unto Us a Child is Born.  If I’m really honest, my next thoughts don’t go to Jesus as someone offering advice or legal direction.  I think of camp counselor; a role I have ministered with for much of my life.  It is easy to draw parallels between a wonderful camp counselor and Jesus.  I asked my daughters how a good camp counselor is like Jesus and the list that follows includes their responses.

• listens to you
• watches out for danger and keeps you safe
• guides you so you don’t get lost
• forgives you when you make mistakes
• welcoming to all and makes sure all are included in the group
• not judgmental
• caring and compassionate
• enjoys having fun with others and likes to laugh
• makes learning about the Bible and God fun

Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, has all these traits and more.  As we approach the day ahead, may we be grateful for the ways that Jesus guides us in our lives and cares for us as His own.

Prayer

Wonderful Counselor, thank You for looking out for us and guiding us through life.  May we be mindful of Your teachings and Your call for us today.  In Your name we pray, Amen.