Isaiah 12 (CEB)

You will say on that day:
“I thank you, Lord.
Though you were angry with me,
    your anger turned away and you comforted me.
God is indeed my salvation;
    I will trust and won’t be afraid.
Yah, the Lord, is my strength and my shield;
    he has become my salvation.”

You will draw water with joy from the springs of salvation.
And you will say on that day:
“Thank the Lord; call on God’s name;
    proclaim God’s deeds among the peoples;
    declare that God’s name is exalted.
Sing to the Lord, who has done glorious things;
    proclaim this throughout all the earth.”
Shout and sing for joy, city of Zion,
    because the holy one of Israel is great among you.


Reflection

Surely there are days that our Lord could be angry with us. Perhaps when we have acted against God or taken life for granted, then there must be days in which God is disappointed and angry with our decisions. Yet, as the words of Isaiah attest, the same Lord, who is the God of all, is instead offering to comfort us. God turns God’s anger away from punishment and offers us salvation.

So shout to the Lord, because God is our strength and our salvation!

But God is not just the Holy One who rescues, but the same one who provides a way of salvation. Our Lord, Jesus Christ, provides “water from the wells of salvation” for all believers. So, it’s Isaiah’s prophecy that predicts the coming of Jesus. Jesus is the Holy One, who holds our hands, comforts us and washes away all our mistakes. Can you imagine the endless water that washes away our every mistake? This is our savior, Jesus.

Therefore, “…proclaim God’s name”!

It is enough just to be thankful to the Holy One, Jesus. However, whenever we can, we must proclaim God’s name. We must share with others our personal salvation story. Sing God’s praises! Shout aloud to others throughout the world and throughout our lives. Sing even though you think your voice is worthy. “…Sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.” Proclaim God’s name, Jesus, my Lord.

by Barbara Carlson


For Pondering & Prayer

It isn’t always easy to shout about our Lord and Savior, but with whom have you shared your salvation story? What are the ways that you celebrate your relationship with the Holy One who comforts and sustains us?

Prayer: Lord of all, let me learn to praise you in all the ways that I can. Amen.