Thursday, January 26, 2017
Isaiah 49:2-3 He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor."
EPIPHANY SPLENDOR
In his prophecy Isaiah foretells what the ultimate purpose would be for the Father sending His Son to our world and using Him like a "sharpened sword" and "polished arrow." Whenever a poor sinner is granted the epiphany: God's Son descended from heaven for me to bring me life to the full (here and hereafter), it has the splendid effect of God's splendor being placed on display for all to see. The prayer Jesus prayed as He readied Himself to enter His passion is beautifully answered: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you" (John 17:1).
The application this has for Christians in our daily faith-walk? It gives inspiration for the important work He has given us to do as His disciples. Think of it! Whenever we share His message of life eternal in Christ (with our fellow Christians at church on Sunday, with others outside the church walls through personal evangelism and our church's mission programs), it redounds to the glory of God.
Savior, shine in all Thy glory On the nations near and far;
From the highways and the byways Call them, O Thou Morning Star.
Guide them whom Thy grace hath chosen Out of Satan's dreadful thrall
To the mansions of Thy Father-- There is room for sinners all.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 498:6)
