The Jewish people were anxiously looking forward to the arrival of their Messiah. While in the heat of oppression and constant war, they understood that when He came, He would save the world and turn the tide of history. In the midst of crying, “God, have you forgotten us?” and “God, why all this suffering and evil?”, there was prophetic voice saying that someday He would come and make things right! Perhaps no book did a better job of painting this picture than Isaiah, which is often called the fifth gospel because it talks so much about Messiah’s coming. In the passage above, Jesus is referred to as a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and Jesse is a descendent of David; part of Israel’s royal lineage. In the remainder of the verses in Isaiah 11, a beautiful ministry of reconciliation is described — one that would usher in a peace not previously known on this planet.

Friend, when Jesus came to the world, history changed forever! As He walked the earth, He brought a depth of knowledge and a wholeness of healing that had never before been experienced. He turned the religious system on its head by teaching that the first would be last and the last would be first. He gave voice to the downcast, depressed, and oppressed, and He treated everyone with dignity and love. Beyond that, He willingly gave His life for the very ones He created to buy us back from the grasp of the devil. By equalizing us with His blood through the cross and resurrection, He forever stripped us of earthly labels and limitations. Whether a Samaritan, prostitute, tax collector or sinner, He didn’t discriminate then and He doesn’t today either! In His Kingdom, you are priceless and you can do anything in His Name.Your life is limitless because He is your source! Isn’t that fantastic news?