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You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. 
The people have rejoiced before you as they rejoice at harvest time and as they rejoice when dividing spoils.
For you have shattered their oppressive yoke and the rod on their shoulders, the staff of their oppressor, just as you did on the day of Midian.
Isaiah 9:3-4 CSB
Somehow Isaiah is looking back, looking forward, and speaking to us at the same time.
At Christmas we are invited to look back at a small baby who changed the world.
To not just look back, but to rejoice, because hope was born that day.
The yoke of sin has been broken. The power of sin over our lives is shattered because of the life and death and resurrection of that child. 
The sins of others.
The impact of the world.
Just as at that first Christmas we got a glimpse of what was to come when Jesus was born, now we get glimpses of what is to come when all things are restored. 
When we think of someone in our lives and give a small gift, give a word of encouragement, when we bless a stranger, pray with someone, are prayed for, receive a word of encouragement, when we receive a small gift, we turn towards God, when we share a meal, invite someone in, when we allow ourselves to be invited in...the oppressive yoke is broken.
And love wins.
We get a glimpse of how it could be.
How it should be.
How it will be.
#loveGod
#lovepeople
#lovewins

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