Isaiah 49:5-6 (TPT)
5
And now, the Lord Yahweh—
who shaped me in the womb to be his servant,
to bring Jacob’s tribes back to him
that Israel would be gathered back to himself,
for I am honored in the sight of Yahweh.
I find the source of all my strength in my God—
6
who says:
“Is it too small a thing for you, my servant,
to restore greatness to Jacob’s tribes and the survivors of Israel?
I will make you to be a light to the nations and
to bring the light of my salvation to the ends of the earth!”
In our passage today, the prophet, Isaiah, speaks a word of hope to God’s people about bringing freedom to those suffering from exile in Babylon—the world’s system. Our passage exalts the Lord Yahweh, his perfect love, and his power to save and restore. This prophecy is really about the future salvation Jesus Messiah will bring as the sinless and obedient Servant of Yahweh who will die for the sins of the world.
Think about this prophecy and the things we now know God has done, in Christ, to deliver us into freedom and wholeness. We are not bound by the things of this world or the work of Satan, we have been released by the Liberating King. A future of choices awaits us and we are free to make them. Our relationship with God is blessed and strengthened by the righteous choices we make to live in the Kingdom. We know it is a narrow path, but we follow.
Jesus was called from the womb, covered by God’s Spirit and favor, as well as equipped and prepared by God to bring salvation—the greatest miracle of all—to the world. Never forget, Jesus, the Light of the World, was sent to invite not only Israel back to rest or dwell in Yahweh, but the nations, as well. May we have the Wisdom and courage to live in the righteous Hand of Truth.
Prayer: Lord, throughout biblical history, you reveal your love and plan to redeem and restore creation and bring everything back into your righteous Hand. Thank you for loving the world and for making a way for our salvation. I treasure your love, trust your will, and seek to protect our relationship in Messiah. In Jesus’ name. Amen.