SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 56
MEMORY VERSE:
“Blessed is the man who does this, the man who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps his hand from doing any evil.” (Isaiah 56:2)
SALVATION FOR OTHERS (vs. 1-8)
Through Israel, the Gentiles will come to know the true God. Foreigners who keep the Sabbath and bind themselves to the Lord to worship and serve Him will be given joy by the Lord. God will accept their burnt offering and sacrifices on the altar. The house of the Lord will be called a house of prayer for all nations.
GOD’S ACCUSATION AGAINST THE WICKED (vs. 9-12)
Israel had adopted the false gods of the Gentiles. Their leaders were blinded and without knowledge. They were like lazy mute dogs that could not bark but with mighty appetite. They were shepherds who lack understanding, selfish and greedy. As a consequence, the nation went into captivity.
THOUGHTS:
The Gentiles knew the true God and His salvation through the Israelites. The wall between the Jews and Gentiles was broken down by Jesus Christ. Any sinner can come to the Savior and receive forgiveness through repentance.
Sabbath is a special day for us to rest and honor Him. We are to focus our thoughts on Him. Everyone including Gentiles or eunuch can receive His blessings. So, whatever your race, social position, work or financial situation, you will be included in God’s blessings.
The Israel leaders were blind to danger and apathetic to people’s needs. Instead of serving the people, they were more concerned about satisfying their own greed. If you have the privilege to be in a leadership position, use it to sacrifice for the good of the people.