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.
Because the Servant has borne sin, barren Zion becomes a joyful mother, the forsaken wife is restored, and the ruined city is rebuilt in beauty and peace.
The world sees a despised and defeated man, God sees his victorious Servant, and faith sees the substitute who bears our sins.