I will open rivers on the bare heights and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water and the dry land springs of water. Isaiah 41: 18
Hope is expensive. Every day, images of war, disease and famine flood our screens. Disturbing stories of greed, lust, and hate cross our newsfeeds. Our energy is spent wading through the nastiness, searching for a drop of good news. Hope is unaffordable when our spirits are crushed in a sea of fear and desperation.
Isaiah lived in Jerusalem during a time of fear and desperation. The Northern Kingdom of Israel had fallen to the Assyrian army and Babylon had conquered and sacked Jerusalem and exiled the elite Jews. Heathens who didn’t believe in Israel’s God had destroyed the temple and scattered the people. God’s promised land seemed lost. Isaiah’s job was to relay the word of God, but in a time and place where the future was so terrifying, what could God possibly have to say to the people of Jerusalem?
Isaiah is not terrified. Instead of fear, he offers a word of assurance to the people, despite the uncertain future ahead of them. God is not going to abandon God’s people. God will judge the conquerors and provide for Israel, God’s chosen. Isaiah reminds the people of God’s power and might. When there is desperation, God is still there, providing hope.
Hope is expensive, but God pays the price. Fear has no power over God. Isaiah’s vision reminds us that we are a people of hope, no matter how bleak the circumstances. Living into the truth of God’s word means flooding peace, joy and love into a broken world. We trust that there is always something better coming, because God has promised us life with Jesus. And we know that God always keeps God’s promises.
Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of hope. When we are flooded with despair, remind us of Your light. When we can’t go any further, carry us home. When we feel lost and alone, remind us that we have each other, and You, to be our community. Give us the peace that only You can give. In Jesus name, Amen.
Heidi Shilanskas is Director of Faith Formation and Discipleship, and MLK Day and GWOH Day Coordinator for LCS.
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