Isaiah 66:10-14 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 66:10-14 on biblegateway.com
Verse 10Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her- Verse 11that you may nurse and be satisfied from her consoling breast; that you may drink deeply with delight from her glorious bosom. Verse 12For thus says the Lord: I will extend prosperity to her like a river, and the wealth of the nations like an overflowing stream; and you shall nurse and be carried on her arm, and dandled on her knees. Verse 13As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem. Verse 14You shall see, and your heart shall rejoice; your bodies shall flourish like the grass; and it shall be known that the hand of the Lord is with his servants, and his indignation is against his enemies.
Devotion
Isaiah describes God as a comforting mother. I was blessed with a devoted mother whose acts of love helped me understand the blessings of God.
My mom changed my diapers and bathed me.
She clothed me with clothes she had laundered.
My mom made nutritious meals, only to see me refuse to eat them.
When I was sick, day and night, she was there.
She endured the weekly fight to take me to church.
When I felt ugly, she would tell me I was handsome.
My mom always forgave me.
Her door was always open to welcome me back home.
I give thanks that, like a comforting mother, God cleanses, clothes, nurtures, cares for and looks upon us with love, brings us to saving faith, forgives, and never tires in welcoming us back home.
Prayer
God of love, bless parents and families. Give us eyes to see You in acts of sacrifice and love. Amen.