“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people.” (Lk 1:68)
Jesus Christ is our Redeemer. Just as Boaz bought back land to guarantee Ruth and Naomi’s inheritance, by His death on the cross, Jesus has redeemed us from sin to secure our eternal life. In the book of Ruth, Boaz, as a close relative of Ruth’s dead husband, was the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. In marrying Ruth, Boaz revived the lineage and patrimony of Naomi’s family.
For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps. (1Pet 2:21)
Jesus Christ suffered for us. He endured much pain and sorrow while doing good for us. Jesus suffered physically throughout His trails, torture, and crucifixion. He suffered emotionally as He was rejected by many, especially when all the disciples deserted Him and fled when Jesus was arrested. He suffered spiritually as He cried out on the cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Mt 27:46) Jesus was crucified to bear our sins. The suffering of Jesus Christ was God’s plan for the salvation of the world.
“As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him.” (Psalms 103:13)
The third title for the coming Christ given to the prophet Isaiah is Everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus is the Everlasting Father. He has compassion for us as a father has compassion for his children. He listens with compassion to all our pain, fears, complaints, and prayers. Under His care, His protection, and His provision, we are safe and will be gratified for eternity.
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isa 9:6)
The prophet Isaiah called the coming Christ “the Wonderful Counselor.” All people have pain and struggles. Jesus understands the human soul. He knows what we are going through. We can come to His throne boldly to obtain mercy and to find grace to help in time of need. We can trust Him to listen to our problems and guide us in the right direction. Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor. He brings consolation through the power and love in His own life but also today through the Holy Spirit, who is called the Counselor in John 14:26.
For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation. (Eph 2:14)
Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He is our peace. He made peace by the blood of His cross and reconciled men and God. He broke down barriers between men. He is a great peacemaker.