Read: Isaiah 60:1-62:5; Philippians 1:27-2:18; Psalm 72:1-20; Proverbs 24:11-12
Today’s reading in Isaiah is a word for us today. It says to arise and let your light shine. There is much deception and darkness on the earth but it is the time for the Church of Jesus Christ to stand up and let her light be seen. God is doing a work all over the earth and even in places like Hollywood and Washington D.C.. God promised to give the wealth of the world into the hands of his people who will be able to use it to bless the world with new inventions, creative ideas, better education, medicines that heal, the gospel that is relevant and personal, and science that reveals the glory of the Lord. We are the hope for the world and all its problems. We are not rapturing out of here any time soon. We are here to bring God’s kingdom down to earth and manifest the goodness and the kindness of God.
We have been called and anointed to preach the good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. The vengeance of the Lord is for another day.
God has promised to give us a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of the spirit of despair. The nations will see our righteousness and no longer see us as forsaken but they will honor us because we carry the favor of the Lord.
Philippians tells us how to do this. When the Church is exalted in the eyes of the world, it is important that we represent Christ in a way that is worthy of him. Jesus didn’t do anything for his own exaltation or name, but humbly laid down his life for us. We have to have the same attitude. All our gifts are to help others, not to bring us glory. Everything we do and know came from God and it was given to us to bless the nations so that He will be glorified. Our reward is waiting for us in heaven.
Lord, may the whole earth be filled with your glory and may this be displayed through your people.
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