Isaiah has sometimes been called “the Fifth Gospel.”
That may sound a little strange at first. After all, Isaiah is not one of the four Gospels. It is not Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. It is a prophetic book from the Old Testament, written centuries before the birth of Jesus.
This Sunday is Trinity Sunday, the day in the church calendar when we especially remember that God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Which is wonderful. And difficult…
Day 30 — 2 Chronicles 26:15-23; Psalm 137 Exile by the rivers Opening prayer Sovereign Lord, as I read of exile, loss, and sorrow, please help
Day 29 — Isaiah 39:1-8 Flattered by Babylon, exposed by God Opening prayer Sovereign Lord, please guard me from pride, from craving human approval, and from
Day 28 — Isaiah 38:1-22 Sick king, added days Opening prayer Merciful Father, when I feel weak, afraid, or confronted by my frailty, please draw me
Day 27 — Isaiah 37:8-38:38 The king prays, God answers Opening prayer Living God, when I feel surrounded by threats and mocked for trusting you, please
Day 26 — Isaiah 36:1-37:7 Threats shouted, faith tested Opening prayer Sovereign Lord, when I feel under pressure and tempted to panic, please steady my heart
This Sunday, some of us will be running through the streets of Lindfield in the local fun run. I am looking forward to it, though my own ambitions are modest: finish upright, smile occasionally, and avoid needing pastoral care at the end…