Passage: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isaiah+1.1-11

Scripture

He has sent me to tell those who mourn

that the time of the Lord’s favour has come

and with it the say of God’s anger against their enemies.

Observation

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me

to bring good news to the poor

to comfort the broken hearted

to proclaim freedom for the captives

to declare the time of the Lord’s favour

God promises that He will bring joy to those who mourn and His justice will be revealed to all nations.

Application

Those who mourn because of injustice will find joy in the Lord. The time of God’s favour is coming.

There are times when we might feel abandoned by God, maybe because of injustice, opposition or a life or family out of our control.

But God is going to change all that. His favour will come and His blessing will be poured out.

God raises up the humble and brings joy to those who grieve. He is in the business of restoring lives, especially for those who trust in Him.

This is more than good news to the oppressed. He will also bring justice and judgement on those who oppress.

There are systems in the world which seem to lock some people into poverty, violent relationships or social deprivation. But God is going to judge those systems, not by oppressing the oppressors but by renewing the whole of society through the renewal of relationships and the transforming of our minds.

One day love, justice and peace will flow across the land like a mighty river in flood. Jesus’ death on the cross has released a kingdom that will never end, a justice for all that will never be undermined.

Prayer

Lord your desire is not just to forgive sins but to change all things so that those who are pulled down will be restored. Help me to see how I can be a channel for your justice. Amen.