God’s Gift To Us

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 NLT

Have you ever seen a vision of Heaven? I did experience a glimpse of Heaven when I prematurely gave birth to my youngest daughter 37 years ago. We both went into cardiac arrest. I don’t remember much about it, but I do recall a bright light at the end of a narrow path.

I felt such peace as I drew closer to the bright light that it filled my entire being to the point where I no longer knew what I had left behind. I could hear singing coming from the bright light. Although I couldn’t understand the language or the voices, my spirit knew where I was.

Suddenly, I heard a child cry as I was about to cross over. At that moment, I realized who I was and that I was leaving my babies alone. I looked at the angelic being who was guiding me and told him that I could not accompany him because I had nothing to offer to the Lord, and I didn’t want to leave my babies alone. And just like that, I was back in the ICU.

But my experience with Heaven was nothing compared to Isaiah’s vision. In Isaiah chapter 7, Isaiah describes the coming of the Lord Jesus. He saw His birth, the birth of our Lord and Savior, and Jesus “lifted up” and drawing people from every nation to Himself.

Isaiah saw a child (our Savior) being born in a stable in Bethlehem and being sent from Heaven for us because we desperately needed a Savior. Why? Because we are unable to save ourselves or rescue ourselves from our wicked ways. Only Jesus can restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father. We need a Restorer. So, this Son will be born for us.

Isaiah also saw that Jesus would come for us and be a gift to us. He won’t just do His unique rescue and restoration work and leave. He assures us, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 NLT)

Redemption is a unique gift (unmerited favor). It is being rescued from shame, darkness, and eternal separation from God and given eternal life in its place.

Although we often think that God’s greatest gift to us was salvation, Jesus Himself is God’s gift to humanity. Knowing Jesus, walking through life with Him, obeying Him, and being clothed with Him and His authority is the gift of unspeakable value. Yes, that child was born for us. However, He is also an everlasting gift to us.

Lord, Jesus, thank you for Your mercy and grace. I don’t deserve all the sacrifices You have made for me and for all of humanity. You not only came to save us (for us), but You also came as a gift to us. You promised to be with us until the end of time. Lord Jesus, help me to keep my eyes on You, and as I remain in You and You in me, may I become like You one day. In your precious name, amen!

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