Here I am Send Me

Isaiah 6, Isaiah 56

God elected the prophet Isaiah to bring a message of both judgment and hope. Throughout the book, Isaiah warns Israel’s corrupt leaders that their rebellion against God and their covenant will lead to destruction by Babylon and Assyria.

But at the same time, Isaiah has a message of hope not just for Israel but for all nations. Today we read Isaiah’s vision, where God sends him to be a messenger to Israel. Isaiah sees the glory of the Lord and experiences, recognizes his brokenness, and then experiences forgiveness from the Lord. What is his response?

To be sent as God’s messenger.

Take a look at the message Isaiah is called to give, though. It’s not exactly a happy one at first glance. He was responsible for telling the Israelites that they were so calloused that destruction and ruin were necessary so that the “holy seed” could be planted amongst them. Israel needed to be cut down so that God could remake them into a people who honor their covenant and display His glory to the nations.

This was a difficult message. Throughout the book of Isaiah, he faithfully communicates this warning alongside the message of hope, represented by the seed of renewal that God wants to plant in their midst.

In chapter 56, we see God’s declaration that the non-Israelites who submit to Him will receive His blessing. As you read, take note of all of the blessings that God wants to give all nations. These are the things that we have access to in Christ and God wants to give to all people.

Amid humanity’s rebellion, God sends a messenger to tell all nations of the joy, acceptance, and belonging they have within His family.

Like the warnings that God called Isaiah to communicate to Israel, the gospel can be offensive and difficult to swallow. It’s hard to hear that we are slaves to sin and contribute to the world's brokenness.

But simultaneously, when we are sent with the gospel, we have a message loaded with hope. Jesus has provided us freedom from our sin and reconciliation with God himself.

Take a moment to recognize an area of brokenness in your life. What would allowing God to plant his seed of hope in that area look like? Who around you needs to hear this message as well?