When overcome by troubles can I recognise Jesus? Who is this who comes from Edom, from the city of Bozrah, with his clothing stained red? … It is I, the Lord, who has the power to save!” Isaiah 63v1 The Lord seems to come from the wrong place. I expect him from Jerusalem, but he … Continue reading Unexpected Jesus
We desire to participate in Isaiah’s message. Prepare the way for the people. … Remove the stones. Raise a banner for the nations. Isaiah 62v10 But first the preparation! Jesus works in us to be part of his call. For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent … till her vindication shines out like the … Continue reading Messenger before message
I am quick to take this passage as my being a partner with God in fixing his world. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. Isaiah 61v1 I assume a smug self satisfaction from which I might minister to the … Continue reading The awful truth
This verse seems to demand action. “Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the Lord rises to shine on you. Isaiah 60v1 On a closer look the verse brings a number of influences that must occur at the same time. The Lord initiates and must be heard by … Continue reading Light arise?
Are we kidding ourselves in our ministry programmes? … day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, .. They … seem eager for God to come near them. Isaiah 58v1-2 There are many who are eager to follow Jesus. Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not … Continue reading Where is God?
The Lord surprises. He receives the unacceptable. Blessed are those who honor my Sabbath days of rest and keep themselves from doing wrong. Isaiah 56v2 The Old Testament law was extensive, yet here the Lord simplifies. He asks people to trust him for time and to do what they understand to be right. When overwhelmed, … Continue reading Lord accepts the unacceptable
A commitment to God’s purposes brings its challenges. Consider Jesus, The Lord called me before my birth; from within the womb he called me by name. Isaiah 49v1 Jesus was called at conception with an announcement by an angel. That calling set the Father’s purpose for his life. It gave an assurance that the Father … Continue reading God’s Purposes
Extravagant worship exposes hearts! Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume … and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. John 12v3 in pouring out her most valuable item onto Jesus, Mary is pouring out her very self in one act of unbridled devotion. This is worship. But … Continue reading Heart Exposed
We live in a generation that is proud to be free. But, are we free. Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8v31-32 Jesus values our faithfulness … Continue reading Jesus frees
People sometimes set Love and God’s word against one another. The Pharisees brought a woman … They put her in front of the crowd. “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” John 8v3-5 Jesus’ opponents want … Continue reading Love and faithfulness meet
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