"He will sprinkle many nations [with his sacrifice of himself].
And kings will shut their mouths because of him.
For what they were not told, they will see.
And what they have not heard, they will understand."
(Isaiah 52:15)
The passage is talking about Jesus' suffering for others. The verse previous talks about him being so disfigured that he could scarcely be recognized as human.
The response from kings: They will shut their mouths.
Love wins.
Eventually, ultimately, how can anyone not be won over by God's love? Rob Bell says it might not happen in this lifetime, as we perceive it. But that it will happen.
When I was little, I used to feel awe and wonder at my mother's sacrifices for me. It overwhelmed me, made me cry. I don't even remember what they were, or what she did exactly. But I remember the feeling of awe, and it was also tainted with a little sadness. Because, of course, a sacrifice had to be made, whatever it was.
This is the central story of love, and by extension, of everything. This is religious truth.
Tom Conlon will play a concert tonight at our church, Eastminster Presbyterian. I pray that there will be a good turnout, that people will come and experience his music and be moved by it.
I pray for Lee today as he makes his way through his work day. I pray that I'll be what he needs in a wife.
I pray for protection over my sweet children.
I pray for Sara, for You to intervene.
I pray for my work situation, that I would have an opportunity to write a book that glorifies you by September 2011. Should I keep up this deadline element to my prayers? I have no idea.
In Your son's name I pray.
Amen
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