Removing Oppression

The best invitation we will ever receive is the one to follow the way of Jesus and to allow His grace and character to be more and more reflected in all we do and say. 

God invites us to leave all manner of ugliness behind – which is a good thing to do in itself – I mean, who wants the ugly dirty bits?  But, then on top of that God describes so many promises of blessing that will result.  For example:

Isaiah 58:9b-12: 

Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! Feed the hungry and help those in trouble.

Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength.

You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes.

Isaiah 58:9b-12

So, if I count it correctly there are 3 things stop, 2 things to do, and several amazing things that will take place in our life.

Who of us doesn’t want to work for justice and see the yoke of oppression removed from people?  When we see folks hungry and in trouble there’s nothing more gratifying than to be able to help out. 

Isn’t it about time we stop accusing and condemning and speaking negatively about others – especially since there’s plenty in our own lives that people could accuse and speak about isn’t there?

On the basis of just those moves in God’s direction He generously promises us light in dark times.  And then there’s even more because the amount of blessing and refreshing that God gives us is always enough for where we are at and plenty more with which to bless others. 

Heavenly Father, Give us grace today to do something good for those who are living under heavy burdens.  Help us to act today – to do something, anything small or large as You put it on our heart – kind words or donations or help of any kind so others are strengthened and provided for today.

We open our hearts to receive Your light shining in our darkness; to recognizing and following Your guidance that is coming to us continually. 

Lord, work in us today, by Your Spirit.  Help us to build walls of protection and to be those who are useful in the ministry of reconciliation You say that we’ve all been given through Jesus. Amen

Well, all I can say to that is:  Let it begin today.  Let it begin with us.  Have a wonderful day.