Brokenness – Isaiah 53:1-12
I am imagining a new magazine. It will be called, The Rational Inquirer (all copyrights reserved) It will answer the questions that need to be asked, not the ones prompted by the space – celebrity connection. It’s articles will tell the stories of the saints – the captives Jesus has set free. Their stories will affirm scripture and confirm that the truth is more amazing than fiction.
Sales will initially lag behind Charisma and Christianity Today but will eventually win the readership of both camps since it’s focus has remained on Jesus, the common denominator of both camps. It’s sales will be bolstered by Safeway and Skaggs Albertson as it finds its way next to the gum, batteries, Rolling Stone and The Other Inquirer. It will trump even Trump with this headliner question – the one so many had forgot they are asking …
What is God like?
Who is God and what is he like? Ironically, our response forms the foundation of who we are and what we are like. If someone came to me and asked me this question I might say…
I am assuming your question is in earnest, so I want to put you on the right trail. Let me suggest you read Isaiah 53, then the gospel of John. These two people can shed light on your question. As you read, try writing down your impressions. Once you have done this, let’s get together and chat.
If this seeker follows through, they are in for some big surprises. While they might have envisioned God as powerful, did they expect to find him as vulnerable? While they expected a ruler, will they be surprised to find a servant? They knew kings issue decrees, but did they anticipate his silence? His questions? While a deity is supposed to be far above and beyond us, will they be shocked that he came and took a position beneath and along side us?
After reading Isaiah and John, our rational inquirer will likely conclude that the God revealed in scripture is far beyond human invention and must be a God worthy of their worship. Perhaps you or I will be that third witness, who weighs in with our story. Perhaps we are intended to be the appointed one who will introduce this person to Jesus Christ. Perhaps we will be honored to hear our inquirer’s “Yes Abba” – the first words of his brand new language.
Father, connect us to those you are drawing to yourself. Anoint us as catalysts to stir their hearts with the wonderful news of who you are and what you are like. Amen.