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Today's reading
December 2, 2024
Introduction
Isaiah 1-66
The Prophet Isaiah's ministry was centered in the capital of Judah, the city of Jerusalem. He prophesied for over 40 years to four different kings: Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The prophecies that Isaiah shared with these leaders speak to three different seasons that the nation of Judah would encounter.
In chapters 1-39 they are in a season of dread. For years Judah chose not to trust God. They broke the covenant that had been established between them through idolatry and pride. Now world powers were rumbling towards them like a harbinger of judgement. Isaiah pleaded with the nation's leaders begging them to trust in God. But the nation was too far gone, and the glimmers of hope that manifested periodically faded fast under a blanket of immediate folly. Even as Judah was swallowed by the reality of the impending consequences of their sin, Isaiah offers hope. His message to Judah is that judgement will refine you, and someday you will trust a true King of righteousness that will lead you to become all that you were meant to be.
In Chapters 40-56 they are in a season of humility. Judah had been taken captive by Babylon. As the months turn into years the inescapable reality of the consequences of their rebellion were ever present. Their pride had been leveled, but the seeds of hope from their ancient covenant had been poisoned by the fallow ground of captivity, creating a cynicism that filled their minds with questions. Where is God? What is our purpose? Will life ever be good again?
Isaiah passed away before this generation would ever read his words, but his disciples offered them as a way to bring hope at just the right time. Isaiah's message comforted God's people by telling them that they had not been forgotten. The God of Israel rules over heaven and earth, and someday a King will rise up that will teach them how to serve God by humbling himself on their behalf.
In Chapters 56-66 they are in a season of potential. God has miraculously rescued His people from captivity and He is reestablishing their national identity and purpose. As the people are met with the immense task of physically rebuilding the hallmarks of civilization, Isaiah's words from more than 70 years in the past meet them at the perfect moment reminding them of their greater work. He tells them that they will be God's servants, sharing the light of God's majesty with the world, building a holy city that beckons people from every nation and walk of life to trust in God and take their place in His holy city.
The message of Isaiah is that in every season of life God offers comfort and hope through Jesus Christ. Whether He is a coming King, a child that becomes a Savior, a vine sprouting from a stump, or a suffering servant, the message of Jesus is held up to muster courage, endurance and purpose. Just as the Jewish people eagerly awaited the first Christmas, the message of Christmas; the life, death, resurrection, and teaching of Jesus finds those who trust in God no matter where they find themselves.
This is Christmas to you.