Righteousness Will Last Forever

Those who are tied to the earth will be cast away, and even the earth will wear out. But not the righteousness and salvation of God. It remains and is more permanent than even the heavens and the earth (verse 6). Knowing that the righteousness and salvation of the LORD are permanent and the opposition and mocking of the wicked is temporary, let us stand strong in faith (verses 7-8). We don't have to be afraid that God will change His character (my righteousness) or His mind about us (my salvation). No wonder Isaiah says to us “Listen.”

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REFLECTION

Righteousness Will Last Forever

by Diane Ward

During this Advent season I am grateful for a time-out to focus entirely on the gift of Jesus Christ, the promise of God’s covenant with His people.

At my workplace I document mounting cases among school populations of the world-wide pandemic. It weighs heavy on my spirit. I am witness to emotions of fear and sadness I cannot comfort as a nurse is missioned to do. Alongside this sorrow is ongoing strife and dissent of the US 2020 presidential election.

The business of politics is not righteous. Isaiah reassures those who fear the Lord to trust in the name of the Lord. As they sense growing darkness around them, he directs them to guard against self-reliance and cultural dependence. “All nations before Him are as nothing; and they are counted to Him less than nothing, and vanity.” (Isaiah 40:17) 

The longing for righteousness that lasts forever is innate. “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Unlike mythical heroes we are followers of a suffering servant who accepted His commission for the restoration of Israel, for the redemption of mankind. He has ensured a righteous forever home for us with His blood sacrifice.

Again, I am grateful for a respite of peace and a place to hide in Him during this Christmas season, forward into a new year!

“Truly He taught us to love one another; His law is love and His gospel is peace. Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother; and in His name all oppression shall cease. Sweet hymns of joy in grateful raise we, let all within us praise His holy name. “

(Music and lyrics: Adolphe Adam and Placide Cappeau, 1847)

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - MONDAY 

HUMILITY: Soften our hearts to one another. Give us eyes to see our common humanity, each of us and all of us created in your image, and give us the gift of empathy, to care deeply about one another.