Isaiah 61:7-11 (NRSV)
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Verse 7Because their shame was double, and dishonor was proclaimed as their lot, therefore they shall possess a double portion; everlasting joy shall be theirs. Verse 8For I the Lord love justice, I hate robbery and wrongdoing; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. Verse 9Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge that they are a people whom the Lord has blessed.
Verse 10I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my whole being shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Verse 11For as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations.
Devotion
The other day I watched a 92-year-old enthusiastically singing, “I’ve got the love of Jesus down in my heart, down in my heart, to stay.” Her face not only radiated with happiness but also glowed with a deep sense of joy and serenity. She lovingly patted the old baptismal font where she’d been baptized decades ago. This woman has certainly had her share of burdens and hardships. But she believes. She trusts. She knows God’s goodness will not disappoint.
We are part of a joyful, hope-filled ministry that is fixed firmly in the accomplished reality of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Nothing can change that fact. The joy we have as God’s redeemed people is a lasting reality. It is for eternity! So, what could be of greater joy than to bring good news to those who are burdened or suffer at the hands of those who exploit, oppress and abuse?
Prayer
God of hope, we rejoice in your faithfulness. Amen.