Isaiah 52: 1-15
This passage clearly reminded me that God redeemed me from my slavery to sin. When I was a new believer, I remembered having the joy of being a Christian. I went door to door, street to street to share the good news. I enjoyed attending Sunday School, Bible studies, and fellowship. That was 32 years ago. In Isaiah 52:7 it says, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reign’”.
When I started to devote myself in church’s ministry, things started to change in my walk with God. There were battles at church; battles like missing worship in order to teach Children Sunday School. There were also joy in teaching children as well as missing out on church holiday events in order to attend to childcare. There was memorable relationship developed with the children over the years as well as grueling hours spent in church meetings. There was precious time in Cantonese fellowship as well as criticisms coupled with encouragements relating to church ministries. I won some battles and I lost some. That was 7 years ago. In Isaiah 52:12 it says, “But you will now leave in haste or go in flight; for the Lord will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.” I must say the Lord has been with me in every battle.
Now, I am in a complacency state. I do not have the excitement of sharing the gospel; church activities are like washing dishes-just like another set of routine chores on a Sunday morning. This is 2021. Isaiah 52:14 says, “Just as there were many who appalled at him, his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness.” Jesus suffered heavy beating to the point that no one can recognized him. The scars on his face, arms, legs and ribs remained even after His resurrection. His disciples did not recognize Him. His scars reminds us of the heavy beating he experienced in order to redeem our sins. How about us? Did our scars lead us to draw on God’s power so that we can be victorious in our battles or did they make us into church zombies? — Alan Yam
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