Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 56Thus says the Lord: Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed. Verse 6And the foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord, and to be his servants, all who keep the sabbath, and do not profane it, and hold fast my covenant- Verse 7these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Verse 8Thus says the Lord God, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, I will gather others to them besides those already gathered.
Devotion
It is the first night of Bible camp at Camp Emmaus. It is a night of adjusting and getting to know new people. It is the first time this group of campers has the opportunity to see the wonderful, energetic, faith-filled, joyful response of camp counselors giving praise in this house of prayer. The counselors work hard to gather in all those who have come to camp this week: the shy, home sick, outsiders, free-spirited, extroverted and rambunctious. All are gathered into this outdoor worship place to feel in a new way, the love of the name of the Lord. It is amazing how many connections are being made just in the few hours the campers have been together. I am sure by the end of the week these campers will be changed by this God encounter. May we all focus this week on gathering in those who need to hear the Word of God into our own houses of prayer so that they too may know the power of His love.
Prayer
Gracious God, we thank you this day for the energy of our youth in giving praise to your name. Help us to be reminded of our own beginning encounters with you and be renewed in our ministry to serve you with renewed energy and vitality. Help us to experience again the power of your love to change our lives as we continue to minister in your name. Amen.