An Odd Path to Joy

SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.

OBSERVATION: I've read these verses many times and have recognized it as a prophecy about Jesus and his mission on earth. It's even quoted in the New Testament as being such. But I never really paid attention to the connection between mourning and grieving and the promises of God made in this passage. Godly sorrow over sin and the brokenness of ourselves and our society seems to be a requirement to receive a change of circumstance. Other passages in both the Old and New Testaments support this. In fact, this passage indicates it is only the grieving, brokenhearted, an those who mourn who will receive the promise of a change from that state to one of joy, gladness and general renewal.

APPLICATION: I need to realize that when I am in a state of mourning over my sins or the sins of my nation and world that I am in the best place to expect and receive the blessings of God. I can anticipate that God will change my situation and bring me to a place of joy.

PRAYER: Father, I don't like being in a place of mourning. But I am very grateful for your promise that my sorrow and prayers for righteousness to prevail in my own life and the lives of others will bear the fruit of joy, gladness and restoration. Bring it about quickly, Lord. And may I always embrace your ways and be humble before you. In Jesus' Name, Amen.