What a proclamation of light breaking through the darkness! It’s like hope raining down on God’s people at last! “Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the Lord rises to shine on you. Darkness as black as night covers all the nations of the earth, but the glory of the Lord rises and appears over you.”
These first 6 verses are often text used on Epiphany Sunday in our tradition. Epiphany is traditionally January 6, and we will be celebrating that this coming week. To Isaiah’s audience, they had been stuck in a pattern of darkness. These words would bring hope. They are being given a glimpse into the fullness of life that will happen during the restoration. Would they actually allow themselves to believe?
This whole passage is a beautiful picture of people returning to Israel. “Look and see, for everyone is coming home! Your sons are coming from distant lands; your little daughters will be carried home.” Jerusalem is that home base for our Christian faith as well. When will we make this trek “home?” My husband and I have tried to make the trip on several occasions. All tours have been canceled for one reason or another. I still feel the pull and know God will work it out when the time is right.
No matter where we are in proximity to Jerusalem, we can honor God in how we live. We can trust him and rely on his promises. We can hold on to the truth of Scripture and not let the distractions of the world invade our thinking. Cling to this. “No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, nor the moon to give its light by night, for the Lord your God will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.”
What are you struggling with right now? Are you feeling lost or do you have certainty in your faith? Take some time to wrestle with God today and tell him exactly how you feel. Don’t sugar coat it with God. He knows how you’re feeling. Be real with him.
Let’s pray … Lord, I come to you today and really wish this pandemic was over. I miss my family and miss being able to gather and hug our neighbors. I am ready for this season to be past. But as I look around, God, I am filled with joy and wonder at the beauty of your creation. Thank you for loving me through the ups and downs. Help me keep my eyes on you so that I can shine for you in the darkness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
