Bible Text: Isaiah 9:2 | Teacher: Rev. Brandon Blacksten | Series: Longing for Christmas | The season of Christmas lays bare the deepest longings of our heart, and in a world of violence, division, and suffering, we’re desperate for hope. In the 8th century BC, the prophet Isaiah spoke of the birth of a ruler who would establish peace and rule with justice and righteousness, and who continues to give us hope today.