Faithfulness
Isaiah 43:1-7 (esp. 1-2)
The connection, presumably, to the other lectionary texts this week is the mention of water (which can be interpreted to refer to baptism, specifically the baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan). There is an irony here, though, since in this Isaiah passage the waters are a threat and danger against which God protects the faithful. God's promise in Isaiah, however, is companionship through the waters and fires - the same promise made by Jesus in leaving the Paraclete, "the one who walks beside", or the Spirit.
There is another parallel here with the Paraclete: redemption. The way "redeemed" is used has legal and economic implications - as if there is a debt or suit against someone, and another advocates for that person and perhaps assumes the debt or pays the suit in that person's stead. Paraclete has that same nuance of "advocate" as well as comforter.
Another part of this scripture is important: the command "Do not fear." Isaiah is just coming off a long list of charges against Israel, criticisms and chastisements. And yet, he can turn right around and in that same spirit of God speak words of consolation. You have failed, Israel, you have been unfaithful; but don't be afraid, I haven't given up on you. No matter what happens, I will be with you.
Such faithfulness, even if it is onesided, is beautiful (and anti-semitic Christians would do well to remember the pledges of God on Israel's behalf).
The connection, presumably, to the other lectionary texts this week is the mention of water (which can be interpreted to refer to baptism, specifically the baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan). There is an irony here, though, since in this Isaiah passage the waters are a threat and danger against which God protects the faithful. God's promise in Isaiah, however, is companionship through the waters and fires - the same promise made by Jesus in leaving the Paraclete, "the one who walks beside", or the Spirit.
There is another parallel here with the Paraclete: redemption. The way "redeemed" is used has legal and economic implications - as if there is a debt or suit against someone, and another advocates for that person and perhaps assumes the debt or pays the suit in that person's stead. Paraclete has that same nuance of "advocate" as well as comforter.
Another part of this scripture is important: the command "Do not fear." Isaiah is just coming off a long list of charges against Israel, criticisms and chastisements. And yet, he can turn right around and in that same spirit of God speak words of consolation. You have failed, Israel, you have been unfaithful; but don't be afraid, I haven't given up on you. No matter what happens, I will be with you.
Such faithfulness, even if it is onesided, is beautiful (and anti-semitic Christians would do well to remember the pledges of God on Israel's behalf).
Labels: Gospel of John, Isaiah
posted by Christian at 8:07 AM
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