July 26, 2014

Isaiah 48: 22"There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked.”

 Isaiah speaks to the stubborn Israelites. He reminds them of the ways they have been unfaithful. But God remains true to His word, even though they have not. Now He commands them to leave Babylon. He reminds them of His help during the Exodus.

 My mother-in-law always said this verse. She meant that she was always tired. She didn't think she deserved to rest. It's interesting to see that is not what it means at all. God intended to reclaim His unfaithful people. The Babylonians would pay for their mistreatment of the Israelites. It makes me reflect on the current conflict between the Israelites and the Palestinians in Gaza. Maybe God's hand is in that troubled region after all.

Prayer: Lord, my prayers are mainly for those I know. My narrow self-interest blinds me to the suffering You see all over the world. Today I pray for oppressed people everywhere. Help Your people find justice wherever they live. Amen