Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Annunciation to Joseph

Isaiah 35 1-10

(v. 3-4) Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” 

In this passage Isaiah talks about the restoration of the land and of the people. It provides comfort to the exiles, whose suffering we see is manifested in their feeble hands, unsteady knees, and fearful hearts. Isaiah tells them to not fear and that God will come to save them. He also tells them that the wilderness will transform and rejoice. All of creation will praise the mighty works of God. 

We all go through our own wilderness in life. It is easy to lose sight of God through all the turmoil. God guides us and makes ways for us to live a purposeful life. Exodus 14: 13 reminds us, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today”. Continue to trust in God’s word because he is in control of everything. 2 Corinthians 5:7 tells us, “We live by faith, not by sight.” It is only through faith we will see the purpose of the wilderness in our life. As the New Year approaches, let’s thank God for all the opportunities he has given to us. If we are ready, if we are available to receive His calling, then know that He will make ways more than you could ever imagine.

Prayer

Dear Lord, we thank you for all the blessings in our lives. We are not worthy of your grace and mercy, yet you bless us abundantly. We acknowledge that you are in control and that there is a purpose for everything in our life. Use us for your great glory. Amen.

Thought of the Day

“God allows us to experience the low points of life in order to teach us lessons that we could learn no other way”.   
- C. S. Lewis

Jess Chacko
St. John’s MTC, New York

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