Isaiah 9:1-4 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 9:1-4 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 9But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. Verse 2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness- on them light has shined. Verse 3You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. Verse 4For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
Devotion
Sudan has been a country living in deep darkness. A 22-year civil war left more than two million people dead. The country has little infrastructure, education levels are low and poverty levels are great. My church hosts and partners with a Dinka congregation of southern Sudanese immigrants. Many of them came to Rochester fleeing violence and oppression, including persecution for their Christian faith. Last week more than 100 members of this community took buses to Omaha, Neb., to vote on a referendum that could split the country into two nations. The prospect of independence and freedom in their homeland has filled them with hope. They can sense light finally breaking into the country’s darkness.
How do we see God at work in a situation like this? Through the possibility of a more peaceful future, to be sure. But also in a people who – despite years of suffering – still call on God for help and trust that God will listen.
Prayer
Lord, we pray for the people of Sudan as they vote for independence, and for wisdom, compassion and justice in the leaders who will guide the country's next steps. Amen.