Isaiah 49:6-7
6 Indeed He says, ‘It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant
To raise up the tribes of Jacob, And to restore the preserved ones of Israel;
I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, That You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.’”
7 Thus says the Lord, The Redeemer of Israel, their Holy One, To Him whom man despises, To Him whom the nation abhors, To the Servant of rulers: “Kings shall see and arise, Princes also shall worship, Because of the Lord who is faithful, The Holy One of Israel; And He has chosen You.”
Israel was called the Chosen People. But what were they chosen for? They were chosen to reveal God to the world. He chose to reveal Himself to Abraham and then to the Children of Israel (Jacob) who were Abraham’s great grandchildren. They turned out not to be so great. In this passage, God is speaking to and through Isaiah. The Bible often speaks on several planes. God is speaking in past, present and future times. He often does this. Isaiah tells us that God has chosen him (Isaiah) as a servant to restore Israel. Israel had fallen many times but God still loved them. But God also reveals His intention to restore the whole world, including creation. God tells Isaiah that He will also give “You” as a light to the Gentiles. Who is the “You”? Since it is a capital letter, I believe it points forward to Christ. It also may be that it refers to Isaiah being God’s voice to the people of his time who would listen. God’s plan is to bring His Salvation to the ends of the earth. It seems as many are chosen here. It goes on to say He has chosen You.
How does it feel to be chosen? Were you aware that you have been chosen? Chosen for what? You are chosen to reveal God and His Salvation to the ends of the earth. Our Church asks us to make disciples who make disciples. How are you doing with that commission? Are you being a light to the Gentiles? Every day, you come in contact with new people. What impression are you leaving with them? Are they happier after meeting you? Are you shining God’s light for those around you to see? When someone speaks with you, are they enriched for having had the conversation? You have been called. You have been anointed. You are empowered. You are blessed. What would you do today if you knew God paved the way for you and went with you? Well guess what! He did and He is with you now and always! So go ahead! Do something great today! You’ve got it in you.
Lord, thank You that You are always with us. You said You would go before us making the crooked places straight and paving the way. You said there is nothing we can’t do with You on our side and we know You are always on our side. Please guide us in the way You would have us go. And take us the best way, Your way. In Jesus name we pray!