Over the past twelve weeks, while we have been reading and preaching through Isaiah, I have also been reading Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities.
Dickens begins his novel with some of the most famous words in English literature:
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”
God’s glory rises upon his people, draws the nations home, transforms the ruined city, and becomes their everlasting light.
Sin separates God’s people from him and leaves them powerless, but when they confess their desperate condition, the LORD himself comes as warrior and Redeemer.
God rejects religious practices that conceal selfishness and injustice, but promises light, healing, guidance, and joy to those whose repentance reshapes their lives.
God condemns corrupt leaders and idolatrous people, but he draws near to the humble, heals the repentant, and gives them peace.
As God’s salvation draws near, his people are to practise justice and welcome outsiders into his joyful house of prayer.
It is football World Cup time. It is also State of Origin time. Together, these two great sporting contests confront me with a surprisingly difficult question: who am I supposed to support?
God invites thirsty and bankrupt people to receive freely what truly satisfies, because the Servant has paid and God’s word will certainly fulfil his promise.