Isaiah 52:7-10
7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” 8 Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy; for in plain sight they see the return of the Lord to Zion. 9 Break forth together into singing, you ruins of Jerusalem; for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. 10 The Lord has bared his holy arm before the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.
The words of Isaiah go to a people in captivity who have suffered defeat and have seen their beloved Jerusalem destroyed. The survivors have suffered a lengthy exile in Babylonia and fear that God has abandoned them. The text reminds them that even in a sinful and dark world, God is with them. Their redemption will come not by physical goods, but by the blood of Jesus Christ. These words call on them to shake off the bonds of captivity and share God’s news of victory with the world.
Don’t ignore the Good News when dealing with today’s news. Do not allow God’s promises to be overshadowed by life’s challenges. Rejoice in this simple truth: you woke up this morning!
Your heart beats in your chest because He has a purpose for you. He has not forgotten you, and He will never abandon you. He loves you deeply and unconditionally. He has a plan for you. Even when life is difficult, be assured that a good God still sits on His throne. He is faithful to fulfill all His promises to you. He will provide everything that you need according to His riches in glory. In a world filled with sin, darkness, and oppression, the news of salvation and God’s reign brings great relief and joy. It is far better to be proclaiming what is right than to be a persecutor or slanderer.
Blessing:
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Praises to the One who has brought us the Good News, who has proclaimed peace and salvation to us! May you rejoice in the God of your salvation. Your God reigns!
Contributed by Ron Warren