Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Isaiah 11:1-2.
Isaiah was one of the most famous of the prophets of Israel and lived during a rocky time in Israel’s history. Like other prophets in the Hebrew scriptures, Isaiah casts judgement on those who have fallen short of God’s righteousness, and especially toward those who are rulers and in high places, and who forsake the poor and the needy. Isaiah doesn’t take any joy in having to deliver his prophetic warnings, and it seems to me that he often grows weary of having to always be “the bearer of bad news.”
So, after earlier chapters of judgement, Isaiah 11 (titled in my Bible “The Peaceful Kingdom”) may seem to be a surprising word of good news. Maybe even surprising to Isaiah as well! But not surprising to God - who always keeps God’s promises.
In an unexpected way, and from an unexpected place, a redeemer is coming, “and the Spirit of the Lord will rest on him.” (v.2) God is keeping the best promise of all.
Personal Worship Option:
Even on the darkest days, O Lord, you send light and love and grace. We thank you for the good news of the coming of Jesus. Amen
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