Our scripture this morning is Isaiah 25:1-3.
O Lord, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them. You turn mighty cities into heaps of ruins. Cities with strong walls are turned to rubble. Beautiful palaces in distant lands disappear and will never be rebuilt. Therefore, strong nations will declare your glory; ruthless nations will fear you.
The Book of Isaiah is a prophecy for the children of Israel (and us) that speaks of God’s plan, judgement and salvation. It is one of the longest books of the Bible, and obviously a few select verses this morning will not teach us the full meaning. However, this passage gives us an indication of the message Isaiah brought.
Today’s verses are basically a praise psalm, honoring God for His power and a not so subtle look at the judgement to come. It is reminiscent of the Song of Moses (Deuteronomy 32) as they approach the Promised Land. He reminds them of God’s power and love but also of their tendency to disobey.
Perhaps it will remind us of the shouts of the people as Jesus enters Jerusalem, and that hosannas turned to jeers and “Give us Barrabas” in less than a week. Here is worship and a warning – God is faithful and just, we are often neither of these. God gives us every opportunity to be part of His kingdom, but the choice is ours.
Gracious God, forgive us for our selfishness and trying to live in Your world without Your love. Mend us and send us to be the joyful messengers of the Gospel to everyone. Amen.
