Weighting - Isaiah 40:31

They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength – Isaiah 40:31

Easter was different yesterday. Usually, it’s the busiest Sunday in local churches. Fanfares and feasts, handbells and hymns, crowded sanctuaries and Christ-centered services are all part of the worship at many congregations. So, yesterday was different – most of us stayed at home and watched online services, produced by church members and pastors to help all of the people have a holy day.

And it worked. We were more focused on what happened on the First Easter instead of worrying about what’s going on now. We heard the Resurrection narrative and met Christ in a way that some of us have never contemplated before. Christ came across the bandwidth of our phones, laptops, PCs, and TVs in ways that months ago we never dreamed of happening. Jesus joined us in our homes and quietly quarantined Himself in our hearts.

I think that when we look back to this time, we may see something sacred happening to the Church. Instead of harassing ourselves with holy busy-ness, we will have rediscovered the forgotten path of spiritual awareness. I don’t know about you, but I feel more connected to God this morning than I have in the past – usually, on the Monday after Easter I’m totally exhausted and need to rest. This year, I feel recharged and I’m eager to begin a new journey of faith. This mandatory waiting time has become a meaningful ‘weighting’ time where God has added depth to my spirit and purpose for what remains of life.

I guess that today’s verse from Isaiah perfectly describes what I hope many among us are feeling: They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.

Q: How did Easter affect me spiritually yesterday?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, yesterday we met You risen from the dead; today, we greet You among us as we wait now; and tomorrow, we’ll still be following the path that You have newly created within and around us. Thank You, Lord. Amen.

Beautiful Words - Isaiah 40:1

Isaiah 40:1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.

It is one of the most beautiful verses in the Bible and it has helped countless numbers of people throughout the centuries. It speaks to our hearts, especially when we are going through hard times, unexpected issues, or disturbing moments. It causes us to fully depend on God in situations or crises that threaten to overwhelm. When we read or hear these words being uttered, God is letting us know that He is control and that our lives are very important to Him.

We tend to think about comfort as being something that a loving parent will offer a crying child. We visualize it as a time of consolation between lovers or friends, especially when disappointment has touched their lives. We also look to our leaders to provide comfort in times of natural disasters. Their presence allows us to believe that we can overcome the troubles that beset us; their caring words enable us to feel better about our ability to endure. All of these examples can be applied when God seeks to comfort us as His children, friends, and people.

Perhaps you are experiencing a difficult time right now. Maybe you’re anxious about what lies ahead of you. Perhaps you are worried about the future, a family member, or an issue that never seems to go away. Please allow God into that situation, so that He may all of His love, wisdom, and comfort to help you get through this unsettling time. Let Him speak words of comfort to your heart; let Him cause His love to overflow your soul and bring peace to your mind.

Point to ponder

What is my greatest issue right now? Am I willing to let God comfort me?

Prayer: Lord God, in moments of stress, pressure, or disappointment we become very human, anxious, and frail. Fill us with your strength and love; let Your mercy and comfort heal the hurt within us. Be near to us, so we may receive Your compassion and wisdom. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come along and join us for worship at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s drawings called ‘Promise.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Promise.