In the gospel of John, Jesus talks about abiding in us and we in him. (John 15:4) While we might strive every day to achieve this goal, the distractions of this world often make a feeling of unity with our Lord challenging. Each day, we are faced with choices, from what to wear today to how to respond to whatever the children are up to (are they telling me the whole truth?), to whom to vote for (does their record match their rhetoric?). We often struggle to make the godly choice.
In our reading from Isaiah, the people have once again become rebellious, making plans and alliances that are not God’s plan for them. They seem more concerned with their silver and gold than God’s justice, just like we are often more concerned with money and the stock market than justice for the hungry and oppressed.
Yet God promises to be with those who are faithful, to hear our petitions and to lead us in God’s way.
Spending time in scripture and prayer leads us deeper into a relationship with God, making it easier to trust the voice saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”
Thank you, God, for your patience and mercy as we struggle to follow you. Help us to hear your voice, showing us the way. Amen. — ML