For a long time the words of Isaiah in chapter 43 have been among my favorite passages of scripture. I love not only the promise of protection from the rising tide of life and the fiery tests we often face, but also the promise of a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. The Lord exclaims that he and he alone makes a way.
But that passage doesn’t stand alone – it is a major theme of Isaiah’s and I love the reading this week in Isaiah 35. Isaiah prophesied the exile of the Lord’s people and then the fact that the Lord himself would be the restorer they need, and bring them back from their great trial.
And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness;
it will be for those who walk on that Way.
The unclean will not journey on it;
wicked fools will not go about on it.
No lion will be there,
nor any ravenous beast;
they will not be found there.
But only the redeemed will walk there,
and those the Lord has rescued will return.
They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.Isaiah 35:8-10
We continually revisit, in the writings of Paul, the promise that each of these passages can be claimed over our trials and troubles as well, because of Jesus. Just as he did with Israel, God longs to lead us on the Way of Holiness as he renews our blessing in him. This promise of gladness and joy is for you and me! I don’t know every situation our tribe faces, but I know this – we are destined to enter his gates with thanksgiving and praise as the precious rescued ones of God. When you feel the fires rising and the rivers raging, know that your redeemer lives, and will always be ready to come alongside with and eternal hope.
Let’s continue to celebrate with joy the redemption we have. We are the tribe of the redeemed, and there is no redemption like the redemption of our Lord! When he promises, who can stop it coming to pass? Who can reverse his judgments? Claim his promises this day over your situations and opportunities alike, and rest secure that no matter what challenges we face, his joy is guaranteed to us as we follow after him!
Blessings,
Pastor Ryan