December 29: CHRIST’S OFFSPRING
“Sing, O barren, You who have not borne! Break forth into singing, and cry aloud, You who have not labored with child! For more are the children of the desolate Than the children of the married woman,” says the LORD. Isaiah 54:1
There’s a song in the air! It is characterized by sublime joy — the result of the glorious triumph of the gospel throughout the earth. This ‘flash from the future’ was given to encourage God’s faithful to become and remain faithful to Him. Isaiah points out that, thus far, Israel is barren.
Although God had provided her with every conceivable means of becoming the earth’s greatest nation and spiritual example, as a nation she brought forth wild grapes (5:2). Israel’s failure to submit to the righteous requirements placed before her by God prevented the nation from reaching the high standard that He desired for them. Her offspring became more and more like the surrounding pagan nations, thus the blessings that God was so ready to bestow upon them could not be received. Their eyes were fixed upon other people, people who knew not the LORD, and not upon their God, their faithful husband (54:5).
The essential nature of personal responsibility comes to light. There were those of God’s people who applied their sincerest efforts to cooperate with the revealed will of God. They indeed realized personally a measure of the benefits of His promises. Names such as Enoch, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and Daniel come to mind. The opportunities and privileges placed within their reach were taken hold of, as their spiritual eyes were fixed upon the LORD, the God of heaven.
God’s remnant has often appeared as desolate (see Hebrews 11:36-40), yet unimaginable celebrations among numberless multitudes (Revelation 7:9) await the bride of Christ.
The Lord Jesus is not only our Creator. Because of His sacrifice, He is also our Re-creator! His Holy Spirit makes possible a new birth, with the washing away of past sins (symbolized by baptism). As ‘little babies’ we are meant to grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:14-15). He wants to sanctify each of us totally and completely, no matter the cost. The sinful nature that must necessarily be overcome (or put to death – Colossians 3:5) pushes against the divine will. This calls for divine discipline! If you are the offspring of Christ, you will be disciplined by the Everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6).
My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor detest His correction; For whom the LORD loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” John 3:5