Isaiah continues with the third of four attributes of Messiah – “Everlasting Father”.
In our English translation, “everlasting” feels more like an adjective, a modifier describing the fatherly characteristics of Messiah. According to Hebrew scholars, these two words are both nouns and are in reverse order in Hebrew. The experts tell us that the literal translation of this passage is something closer to “Father of Eternity”.
When we stop to consider this phrase, it immediately feels like an oxymoron. The word “everlasting” refers to both eternity past as well as eternity future. How can someone or something be the beginning or start of something that has always existed?
Paul reminds us that Messiah is the head over all created things from eternity past, including us. Paul also tells us that Messiah is also the firstborn from the dead, making the way possible for us to have life in eternity future.
As you worship today, may you be reminded of Messiah’s care and provision for us, from eternity past before creation, in our current life, and through eternity future when we join Him in our final home and resting place in heaven.
A promise kept, and yet to come.