Scripture: Isaiah 40:11
The Lord God will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep.
Thought for the Day: In last week’s sermon, we looked at the book of Isaiah–specifically the section in which the prophet was speaking to a people who found themselves in Exile. In the first 39 chapters, it was a time of warning in which the prophetic call for repentance was ignored. As we transition into chapter 40, the people’s worst fears have been realized and the people have been taken into Exile. Suddenly, the prophet’s voice changes to one of hope and compassion. He offers images of a God who is tender and compassionate to those who find themselves far from home. This is a major turning point in the theology of Israel. Prior to the Exile, they pictured a God who was tied to the land and specifically resided in Jerusalem. Here in the 40th chapter, the understanding of God expands as the people claim that the One who is the source of all life could not be contained by geographic or national boundaries. This, of course, was marvelous news for a people who felt lost and abandoned. How often do we find ourselves feeling utterly separated from God? In such moments, we need to read again the words found in Isaiah 40, and in doing so, reclaim our connection to the God whose presence and love are restricted by absolutely nothing.
Prayer: Wherever I might go, wherever I might find myself, let me trust in your grace, O Lord, to come alongside me and embrace me. I might feel lost, but I am never lost to you. Amen.
