SOAP 02/03/2016; Isaiah 62:2

Today's reading: Exodus 35, 36; Acts 10*

S) "² The nations will see your righteousness,
And all kings your glory;
And you will be called by a new name
Which the mouth of the Lord will designate."

Isaiah 62:2 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Isaiah 62

O) This chapter is a message of prosperity, restoration, and protection. While it seems that God promised these things to "Zion" or to "Jerusalem" (see v.1), there is some amount of careful consideration that must be done. When we consider what the LORD promised in vv.7-9, for example, it raises some questions. We know historically, that when the remnant returned from the exile, and reconstructed the temple and city walls (see Nehemiah), that was not the end of their woes. In fact, all we need to do is evaluate a little bit of the Gospels, and we see plainly that the city of Jerusalem was under the Roman control. So, how could it be that its grain and wine would never be forfeit, as it says in v.9? There are really only two ways to view it, then. Either these promises have still not taken place (unless, perhaps, they were fulfilled when Israel became a sovereign nation after WWII), or these promises are not meant for this people directly, literally. The key, I think, comes with the verse above. What makes the most sense to me, is that this chapter is really about the Messiah, coming and establishing His eternal, spiritual kingdom. When Jesus came, the people of God were no longer called "Israel" but they instead, took new names as the disciples of Jesus. Some were given more personal new names (like Simon/Peter and Saul/Paul), and others simply changed from being Jews to being Christians (or else from Gentiles to Christians). When this chapter is viewed through that lens, seeing the references to marriage make a lot of sense (especially for how many times Jesus compared Himself to a bridegroom). The references to being forever freed from the power of our enemies makes a lot more sense, when viewed spiritually instead of physically (although there will still be a final day of judgment, when all evil is permanently ended). The righteousness and glory of God's people, is a reflection of the righteousness and glory that belong to Jesus Christ. The new name, which the mouth of the LORD designated was Jesus, the Christ.

A) Setting aside carefully studying with context, which is always important, this verse (and chapter) has great value for me, directly. I was oppressed, defeated, and bound to my sins. I was utterly defeated, hopeless. I lost the fight for doing any good, before the fight even began. I was doomed to failure, doomed for death. But, when the righteousness and glory of Jesus Christ came into my life, I was redeemed mightily! I was given a new name! Sure, my given name was still Nicholas Cannelora, but it was no longer "the doomed" but, "the redeemed." God gave me purpose, direction, and life itself. The point of meditating on a verse like this, is to remember that God is for me! He had a plan of redemption all along. He desired to give me a new name, to change me. That process isn't over, but when I reflect on who I was, I am full of thanksgiving and praise. Remembering my own testimony about His goodness, inspires me to share the gospel with boldness. It inspires me to confess and repent of sins, because I know how much I've already been forgiven and sanctified. I could never doubt His grace and mercy for the sins in my life today, when I know that He's forgiven me so much already. This is increased faith, not just hoping for the best, but in understanding who God is. I have faith in Him. I don't simply believe for the sake of optimism.

P) Father, thank You for redeeming me. Thank You for the new name I have, in Christ Jesus. Thank You for securing my freedom, promising my provision, and establishing bread and wine for me. All of the symbolism in this passage, it humbles and excites me, Lord. I am inspired to share this, to share Your promises. Give me opportunity, and let me be found faithful and obedient. Be glorified by my life today, God. I don't want to squander this redemption. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.