Isaiah 43:18-25 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 43:18-25 on biblegateway.com
Verse 18Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. Verse 19I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Verse 20The wild animals will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches; for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, Verse 21the people whom I formed for myself so that they might declare my praise.
Verse 22Yet you did not call upon me, O Jacob; but you have been weary of me, O Israel! Verse 23You have not brought me your sheep for burnt offerings, or honored me with your sacrifices. I have not burdened you with offerings, or wearied you with frankincense. Verse 24You have not bought me sweet cane with money, or satisfied me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities. Verse 25I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.
Devotion
A stirring promise, then wounded lament. This is not how I would arrange a holy proclamation.
These are words of heart-freeing encouragement at the beginning: Do not let former griefs, offenses or wounds bind you. Don’t dwell upon a past that will never change, only fester. God promises a new life, a way out of wilderness briar. God wills that creation’s goodness be restored to heaven’s glory. Things will no longer be the way they are.
But, the people of God are apathetic, stressed, distracted. Our golden calves are legion, our forgetful ways their offspring. Occasional boredom becomes habit. Thoughtful service to God slips from daily consciousness. There are so many responsibilities, there isn’t time right now.
Stirring promise, wounded lament and great love. God is telling the truth. God might be very angry. God might be very sad. But the lament gives rise to the promise. God remains steadfastly loving.
Prayer
Thank you for staying faithful to us, particularly when we are not faithful to you. Amen.