The lectionary gives us this passage from Isaiah as the first reading for Christmas Eve. Many Christians read verses 6-7 as a description of the Christ child.
Isaiah was talking to a people who had suffered defeat: A light is shining on people in the dark. This image is reassuring--as with joy at the harvest.
And he offers a trouble image, as well--They will be as joyous as victors sharing plunder.
More reassurance follows--the yoke you bore is broken, the stick that beat you is broken, the rod that controlled you is broken.
Then Isaiah reminds his people of the price of their release: their enemy will be trampled, their uniforms set on fire.
Focus on the positive message as you look toward Christmas Eve, but don't forget entirely the negative. Consider the promises that God makes through the prophet Isaiah and the warnings.
Lectio Divina: Isaiah 9:6-7
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