Hope for Africa

I love the way God gives new meaning to Scripture you've read over and over and over again.  Last week  I was reading the Christmas passage in Isaiah 9, but I decided to back up to the beginning of the chapter.  I know I've read it before, and maybe it's just a new perspective and focus now, but when I read it this time, it screamed Africa to me.  

2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.  

3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder.  

4 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor.  

5 Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.  

6 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.

The ONLY hope for Africa, the only hope for the nations, is Jesus.  And the great thing is that God has promised that they will see Him.  They will know Him.  He will redeem His people, give them a hope and a future, and will bring an end to the trials that have plagued them.  Praise God!  Not only does Jesus give hope for an eternity, but a practical hope for life here on earth.  He truly is the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.  This Christmas season, pray that the nations may see and believe that Jesus Christ is the all-sufficient Gift... He is the Hope for Africa.