Today's words from a theologian are from Abraham Kuyper. He said: "In the total expanse of human life there is not a single square inch of which the Christ, who alone is sovereign, does not declare, 'That is mine!'"

--- [The Characteristic of] Love

“God is love”, and so he acts in love. The exodus is the great Old Testament symbol of this; because of God’s love, he redeemed his people from enslavement in Egypt. The cross is the great New Testament symbol; because of God’s love, he sent his own Son to die for sinful people.

What does love mean? Here is a generally accepted definition: Love always does what is best for the object of love, regardless of the cost. If you really love someone, you will desire the best for them, and to the extent that you can, you will do what is best for them— even when they may not think it is best and even when it may require self-giving and even sacrifice.

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Isaiah is unusually descriptive in depicting Messiah's future kingdom blessing to Israel and the nations. The prophet refers to Messiah as the "Branch of the Lord"; Messiah will sprout out of the Davidic line and bring blessing to the entire earth. Messiah will also be Immanuel, "God with us," in His life and ministry. It is clear from Matthew 1:23 that the prophecy finds fulfillment in the birth of Christ. Christ's presence through His words and works demonstrates "God with us," for He performed the works of God and spoke the words of God.

Isaiah describes Him both as "a child born" and "a son given," the former suggesting His humanity and the latter His deity. Isaiah's titles of Messiah also emphasize His deity: "Wonderful Counselor", "Mighty God," and "Eternal Father".

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