But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Isaiah 43:1-2 NASB
The world is broken and destitute; darkness prevails; its people need a Savior, deliverance and provision. The Gospel of Peace is good news for the hurt and hungry and homeless, proud and pious and “hangry.” While we were yet sinners, Jesus died for us. His shed blood paid our debt.
Let Truth sink in . . . God’s love is not earned.
Love and Truth cannot be separated. Too often excuses are made to approach ministry from one angle. Unless we follow Jesus’ example, we will fail miserably. He didn’t send the crowds home empty-handed. He recognized their needs and fed them Bread of Life and fishes and loaves. Jesus also didn’t demean the masses for their lack of knowledge and understanding. Instead, He upheld their dignity and worth; He saw their full potential.
Jesus also left the ninety-nine to seek the lost one.
Jesus went where it was uncomfortable. He met an adulterous woman at the well at high-noon, called a tax collector by name and dined with him; and He defended the woman about to be stoned. He stooped to speak to the children; but he was also accused of being a drunkard.
Jesus’ love was generous and unconditional. He broke down cultural, economic, and social barriers and lived a life of servanthood and sacrifice. He washed His disciples’ feet and made them breakfast. I attended a Mennonite church as a child where communion was combined with the practice of foot washing. There was no better way to learn of humility, grace, and intimacy. We remembered Jesus’ shed blood; and we died to self!
Today’s redemption message gifts hope and peace. Jesus died for you and me.
Do not be afraid, for the Lord gathers His children. He will not lose one whom He called by His name. We are precious in His sight and created for His glory. The Lord is not shaken or put off by the flood, our muddy trenches and devastated foundations. He will deliver us from Egypt and lead us to the promised land. His love is victorious.
Trusting in God’s love and Truth,
Lily Mae
“Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ And to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’ Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth, everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made. Isaiah 43: 5-7 NASB
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