Name: Rev. Lucas Bonates
Which Service do you attend: All 3 services
Word: Counselor
Scripture: Hebrews 2:16-18: “We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.”
Advent is a time when we remember that God didn’t stay distant but came close to us in Jesus. One of the most beautiful names given to Christ is *Wonderful Counselor* (Isaiah 9:6). A counselor listens, understands, and helps us find our way forward—and that’s exactly what Jesus came to do. When I think about Jesus as Counselor, I’m reminded of a moment when I was a teenager and my parents were going through a divorce. I remember reading the words of Psalm 27: “Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close” (Psalm 27:10, NLT). From that day on, I’ve carried the assurance that God will never leave me.
During Advent and Christmas, many people feel lonely, grieving, or uncertain. It’s comforting to know that we are never alone—our Wonderful Counselor walks with us. That’s what Hebrews reminds us: Jesus can truly help us because He has shared our struggles. He knows what it feels like to wait, to hope, to suffer, and to feel abandoned. This is the miracle of Advent—the One who counsels us from heaven has also walked among us on earth.
As we prepare for Christmas, may we open our hearts to hear His counsel once again—not only for ourselves, but so we can become voices of peace and comfort for others.
Prayer: Wonderful Counselor, thank You for coming near to us in Jesus. In this season of Advent, help me slow down enough to hear Your voice and trust Your wisdom. Teach me to offer that same gentle presence to those who are hurting. Amen.
Action: Reach out to someone who might be facing a difficult decision or season. Offer to listen, pray with them, and remind them that Christ, our Wonderful Counselor, walks beside them.
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