Old Testament reading: Isaiah 29-30
These two chapters are a trove of truisms and future New Testament references. Before we delve into these, let’s note what appears to be a play on words in Isaiah 29:1-2. Ariel is a reference to Jerusalem, “the city where David dwelt,” and represents the nation of Judah in the way as Ephraim did Israel in chapter 28. Ariel is also the name of the altar of the temple in Ezekiel 43:15-16. As Isaiah 29:1-5 describes the woe of Jerusalem, the place where sacrifice for sins was offered, it seems Isaiah utilizes a play on words to indicate that the city itself will be made an altar of sacrifice for her own sins. Thus, the statement that Ariel “shall be to me as Ariel.” Now to the gems of the text… Isaiah 29:7-8 speak of the ultimate futility in fighting against God’s people. I love the imagery! A hungry man goes to sleep and dreams of eating, but when he wakes, he is still empty. In verse 9 Isaiah turns his attention back to Jerusalem, comparing their immorality to drunkenness and blindness. Being so far removed from God and His word, they are as reeling, staggering drunks. Placing their confidence in the doctrines of men, they have become blind to the righteousness provided by God (cf Matt 15:7-9). Isaiah 25:15-16 is another eye opener. How in the world could God’s people become so deceived to think their thoughts and deeds were hidden from their maker? Isaiah 30:1-5 reminds us that God is our only refuge and strength. Placing confidence in any other is pure folly and vanity. Egypt could not protect Israel against Assyria because she was God’s instrument to punish Israel. God’s plans will not be changed or brought to naught by man.
New Testament reading: 1 John
“I want to know what love is; I know you can show me” (“I Want to Know What Love Is,” Foreigner, 1984). This is still one of my favorite songs. John repeatedly answers this inquiry in today’s reading. Those who want to know what love is should know God, “for God is love” (4:8). Love unexpressed is not love at all, thus God “loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (4:10). Thus, John admonishes us, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (v 11). Loving one another as Jesus loved us is a true mark of discipleship (John 13:34-35).
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