Friday, February 13, 2015

Friday February 13 2015  

Isaiah 61:1-9

We may recognize this passage from Isaiah as one recited by Jesus as he stood to read in the synagogue at Nazareth.  It is a signature passage for proclaiming social justice – bringing good news to the poor, binding up the broken-hearted, proclaiming liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners.  Although we don’t know from the text the identity of the one who is speaking here, we can assume that it is the prophetic voice of the one called Isaiah.  From the context of these verses and others around it, biblical scholars and teachers believe that it reflects the time in Israel’s history after the period of exile in Babylon.  Cyrus and the Persians have replaced the Babylonians; Cyrus, a more benevolent ruler, has released the people of Israel from their bondage and encouraged them to return to their own country, to rebuild Zion (Jerusalem) and the Temple.

With this perspective, we may come to see that “those who mourn in Zion” are indeed the people of Israel, returning to find that the former Temple cannot be replaced.  Frustration and the discouraging feelings of defeat are the result.

However, in spite of this low point, they are subjected to words and sentiments that may serve to pull them out of their lethargy, and set their sights on the work of restoration to the best of their ability.  And it is the God who supports them, who encourages the bringing of good news, and the binding up of the broken-hearted, and the proclamation of liberty, who will see them through these dark times.

The kingdom, or realm, of God is an upside-down kingdom – putting the last first, making the weak strong, enabling the poor to be rich.  This reading from Isaiah’s prophecy reminds us of this truth.  But even more, it call us to share in the anointing of the spirit which enables us to be healers, and enablers, and ones who care deeply for the oppressed and downtrodden.  How will we respond?

- Reverend Paul Kett