Reading
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
and do not return there until they have watered the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:8-11
Read More on Bible Gateway
Reflection
In this passage we are challenged to trust God’s way. God’s thoughts infinitely surpass our own, therefore in our worries, trials and confusion today we are reminded of God’s loving, trustworthy and consistent character. It doesn’t matter if we can’t grasp the state of affairs right now or the struggles we face. Nor are we expected to understand the significance of everything God is doing right now. We are only to trust in his love and divine purpose. The disciples could not grasp Jesus’ predictions of his death, nor could they understand God’s greater purpose as he hung on the cross and was buried. It was later, after the resurrection did they understand the purpose of the process! This passage reminds us, that the rain and snow are forceful powers of God as work – sustaining, nourishing and producing food to eat and rhythm to seasons. Likewise, God’s word to us is as dependable and affective – accomplishing its purpose in us and through us.
Spiritual Exercise
Your to-do for today: May we notice, see, smell and feel the joys of spring and the bursting of new life all about us today – the blossom, the sunshine, the bird song. As we reflect on God’s provision for creation – may we trust his provision and purpose for us. Though we may not grasp all that he is doing in our lives right now or the events of the world today, may we trust in his unfailing, all-powerful love. Maybe write out a list of concerns you have today, in order to let go of control and anxiety. Then, ask God to help you trust him more deeply today, that Christ will reign in your thoughts, that the Holy Spirit will give you peace.
If you have time, read all of Isaiah 55 – what stands out to you?
Music
Have a listen to these great songs as you think about today’s reflection:
One Classic: How Great Thou Art
One Modern You Are My All in All
Digging Deeper
Want to spend a little time digging into this series?
Church of England Daily Prayer.
Church of England Lent: LiveLent: God’s Story, Our Story
Link to St Andrews online Services.
