For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

The name of the child shall be pele ya'ats - wonderful counselor, great plan, marvelous purpose.

Another name will be gibbowr 'el - mighty God, strong lord, profound power.

A third name will be 'ad'ab - everlasting father, ancient founder, once now and future creator.

And then sar shalom - prince of peace, chief of wholeness, best friend.

Each new day is as a child born and given to us. This day is born with the face of a bright moon and the kiss of a warm breeze.

How will we embrace today's potential? Will we seek to understand its marvelous purpose?

How can we contribute to the wonderful wholeness offered us?

You may listen to For Unto Us a Child is Born performed by the Peabody Institute Symphony and Chorus.

Above is an etching by Rembrandt of a mother and sister helping a toddler stand, encouraged by the crouching father.