Isaiah 49-53

Daily Reading
Isaiah 49-53

Daily Thought

Isaiah, in describing the future Servant of the Lord, emphasizes his silence, the silence of the sacrificial lamb.

He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
     yet he opened not his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
    and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
    so he opened not his mouth. ~Isaiah 53:7

In a debate, I cherish the last word, the snappy comeback, the perfect counter punch that stuns and silences my adversary. Pilate asked Jesus, "Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?" But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed (Matthew 27:13-14).

Jesus was silent. He did not need or desire the last word. "Jesus yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, 'Truly this was the Son of God!'" ~Matthew 27:50-54

Actions speak louder.

Daily Prayer

God, My Savior, You who made the heavens, placed the stars, grew the mountains, filled the seas - You became the servant of man, the lamb of sacrifice, and suffered for my salvation. You showed Your glory through humility, Your majesty through affliction, Your wisdom through the cross.

Your Son cried, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?" I wonder, my God, why have You pursued me? Who am I, O God, that You would show me grace and mercy, forgiveness and salvation? You are forever to be worshiped. You are my joy, my strength, my life.

Amen