Isaiah 50:4-9a
The Sovereign Lord has taught me what to say,
so that I can strengthen the weary.
Every morning God makes me eager
to hear what God is going to teach me.
The Lord has given me understanding,
and I have not rebelled
or turned away from God.
I bared my back to those who beat me.
I did not stop them when they insulted me,
when they pulled out the hairs of my beard
and spit in my face.
But their insults cannot hurt me
because the Sovereign Lord gives me help.
I brace myself to endure them.
I know that I will not be disgraced,
for God is near,
and he will prove me innocent.
Does anyone dare bring charges against me?
Let us go to court together!
Let him bring his accusation!
The Sovereign Lord himself defends me—
who, then, can prove me guilty?
All my accusers will disappear;
they will vanish like moth-eaten cloth.
A focus on strengthening the weary is indeed a call for us today. The fatigue, distress and grief in our churches and wider community, in our nation and across the world, permeates the language, attitudes and behaviour of so many. As we move towards Holy Week and Easter, it is timely to ponder our personal faith, wellbeing and how we live our faith daily in the public space. I name devotional time Spirit & Life – God’s Spirit. Our life. How do Isaiah’s words resonate with you? Where is the Spirit showing you the weary? What are you hearing? How will you live out your faith with renewal this Easter?
You are my God, and I give you thanks; I will proclaim your greatness.
Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good, and his love is eternal.
Prayer – A Morning Collect
Awaken me, this morning, so I see you before me.
Open my ears so I hear your whispering.
Clear my eyes to the delights you reveal to me.
Settle my soul, so I rest in you.
Warm my heart, so I love with your graciousness,
Clarify my thinking, with your understanding.
Strengthen my step, so I walk in Your Way.
© Rev Anne Hewitt 7/04/2022
This reflection & prayer may be shared as long as the original writer is credited.