Prepare a Crèche Isaiah 9:6

Reflection by Pepe Demarest, Pastoral Intern

I remember before our children were born how much we thought about their names. Somehow by naming them after ancestors or friends, we hoped that the positive aspects of their characters would go along with the name.  The fortitude of Grandpa, the compassion of Great Aunt were traits we hoped to see in our children.  Of course, it’s hard to name an infant a name that you associate with older people- although Leo is strong and wise and Gertrude was generous, those names didn’t fit our kids. Which makes me think of the names Isaiah has given to the expected child.  How can an infant be a counselor, a father, a prince, much less a God?  Maybe the lesson for us is to have high expectations for all of our relationships as Jesus did- to see them as God might.

Prayer: Oh God of new hope, help us to see the dream you have for your creation in every face we meet. We ask this through your Son who is for us a wonderful counselor, a prince of peace, a father forever and a mighty God.  Amen