Devotion:
Read Isaiah 5:1-7.
This section of Isaiah is often called “The Song of the Vineyard.” This prophet uses a parable to warn the people about impending consequences for their lack of justice and righteousness. God’s people of that time, the people of Israel and Judah, were not following God’s commandments on how to treat those most vulnerable and marginalized among them. They were taking advantage of the poor. The rich were lining their own pockets and not concerned about the needs of others. When these things happen in any nation down through history, there have always been consequences. God never allows that to continue forever.
In verse 7, the writer uses a play on words in the Hebrew language to emphasize the point. God expected “mishpat” (justice) but instead found “mishpah” (bloodshed). God wanted “tsedakah” (righteousness), but heard “tse’akah” (a cry of distress). I invite you to think of word plays in the English language that would help us see the point in our day. Here is one possibility: God expects us to be involved in the work of an angel, but instead finds too many of us involved in the work of anger.
When we disconnect from the way of the Lord, we will not produce the fruit of the kingdom. Be sure to stay connected to the Vine who is Jesus Christ. It is through following his way of treating the least, the last and the lost (even the enemy) that we produce the fruit that God has always expected of his vineyard.
Personal Worship Option:
In the last month, would you say your spirit has been more closely related to an angel or anger? Meditate on that and pray about it.
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