Before Reading.
- Centering prayer— Pray for illumination, “Lord, open my heart and mind by the power of the Holy Spirit,” and remain in silence.
Reading.
- Read slowly, keeping any words or phrase that come to your mind, and mark on them.
- Close eyes and meditate on what you read.
- Take a note if you have question, inspiration.
Read Isaiah 48
Overview
Oracle against Israel’s stubbornness and promise of deliverance.
Prophet first spoke for God, an oracle against Israel. God called Israel by name, and she responded to God. But she became stubborn themselves against God. (v.4). she deserted God relying on other forces, such as idols.
Prophet prophesize that by the mercy of God, God will give them a new thing, Israel’s deliverance by Cyrus, the king of Persia, “the Lord’s chosen ally,” (v.14). God’s goodness is renewed daily, but Israel’s unfaithfulness is almost evident systematically in her life. However, the glory of God is the purpose of Israel’s salvation. (v.9)
God lamented over unfaithfulness and stubbiness of Israel (v.18), but prophet spoke for God, God’s faithfulness and mercy over her, calling the shouts of joy because God will deliver them from exile in Babylon, and God will restore her nation
Prophet sees Israel’s deliverance as the Exodus, reminding them of how God delivered Israel from the slavery in Egypt (v.20-21).
“There is no peace for the wicked,” (v.22) was God’s message for the exiled in Babylon at that time, repeated in Isaiah 57:21, and is God’s message for us in present time.
Reflection.
1. What does this passage tell you about God?
2. What does this passage tell you about people.?
3. What does this passage tell you about yourself and God’s will for you?
