Daily Reading: 24 January
(from www.christianaid.org)
Rebuild and restore.
Something to read
They will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory. 4 They shall build up the ancient ruins, they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.
- Isaiah 61: 3b-4 from full reading Isaiah 61: 1-7.
Something to think about
This text is known best for its use by Jesus in the synagogue at the start of his ministry. Good news is declared to the blind, the imprisoned, the oppressed, all of whom Isaiah called ‘the broken-hearted’.
They are to be healed and comforted in both passages, but Isaiah adds that these hurt people will receive a new spirit. Released from their afflictions it is they who are to be the restorers and renewers of all that has been destroyed around them.
Previous shame and dishonour does not preclude praise and joy. Indeed, it is only through that experience of doubt and pain, and powerlessness and grief that insight is gained into what really is worth celebrating.
We admire people who perform with confidence and assurance. We marvel at what they can do for themselves and often for others, who are in need.
But if you have never doubted, never felt powerless, never known the loss of certainty and the devastation of grief you may never know how to rebuild and restore in a way that brings everyone newness of life.
Something to do
Reflect on something in your own life that hurt or grieved you. Look to see if that experience helped you in your capacity to be compassionate.
Check the status of the forgiveness you have offered to others; does it include a commitment to restoration of relationship?
Something to pray
Oh, God, you are no stranger to hurt, grief and rejection. In the person of your son, Jesus Christ, you show us strength in weakness, power in compassion, resilience in forgiveness.
Inspire us to seek the possibility of growth and new life even in the darkest times and use our vulnerability to witness with generosity to the brokenness of others.
Today’s reading was provided by Sue Richardson, former theology advisor for Christian Aid.