Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
January 16, 2024
Isaiah 66:7-13
7 Before she was in labor, she gave birth. Before her pangs came upon her, she delivered a boy. 8 Whoever heard of such a thing? Whoever saw such things as these? Can a land come to birth in one day? Can a nation be born all at once? Yet as soon as birth pangs came, Zion bore her children. 9 Will I open the womb and not bring to birth? says the LORD. Will I, who create life, close the womb? says your God. 10 Celebrate with Jerusalem; be happy with her, all you who love her! Rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her, 11 so that you may nurse and be satisfied from her comforting breasts, that you may drink and be refreshed from her full breasts. 12 The LORD says: Look, I’m extending prosperity to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like an overflowing stream. You will nurse and be carried on the hip and bounced upon the knee. 13 As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; in Jerusalem you will be comforted.
Good Morning! We are God’s children!
I am moved by the imagery in this passage this morning. Let’s consider the idea that our mother not only meets our physical needs by filling us with nourishment but that she also meets our emotional needs by holding us close. God provides the manna for our physical needs, and God promises to be by our sides, comforting us every moment, every day.
When we meet someone who is in need, the first thing we must do is meet their physical needs. If they are hungry, feed them; thirsty, give them something to drink; cold, provide them warmth. Often, their initial emotional needs are met during this time, but once their immediate physical and emotional needs are met, then we can begin to share the comfort and peace of Christ so that they can let go of their fears.
Helping those in need find spiritual peace can be a long, slow process because they have built safeguards around their hearts so that they can survive. They have learned not to show vulnerability to protect themselves from others who are ready to pounce on their weakness. One kind act is a beginning, but building the trust that allows them to let themselves be truly seen takes great patience and perseverance from those trying to help.
By the grace of God, we are given all we need to share God’s peace with others. We too, must allow our vulnerability to be visible to those with whom we are nurturing. Growing, serving, and building a relationship is a two-way street. To receive, we must first give.
Gracious God, Thank you for this beautiful gift of life. Help us share your gifts with those who are without them. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: God gives comfort to all who ask.
Love your neighbor as yourself! Pastor Liz