Isaiah 51-53, Proverbs 28:1-14, Luke 23:50-56, Hebrews 11:17-31  

Isaiah 51-53:  

More ground breaking, astonishing prophecies from Isaiah! First, God’s people, in Isaiah 51, are told to be comforted, to look to the “rock” from which they were hewn (51:1). Remember Abraham. Remember Sarah (51:2). Remember how God rescued them from Egypt. If God can do all that, can he not again rescue them? Then in Isaiah 52, they are told to wake up! Good news is coming; in fact, in the famous words, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news” (52:7). God’s servant, this suffering servant, shall act “wisely” (52:13), and as he was so marred and wounded, so shall his blood “sprinkle nations” (52:15). There is a redemptive act that is coming. Isaiah 53 is worth studying at length, memorizing, taking on board, letting it affect every part of your mind and heart. Isaiah 53:6 is but one high point: 

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” 

The gospel was first explained to me using that verse. We are all sinners (like sheep who have gone astray). We have all turned to our own way, and turned our backs on God’s way. But the Lord God has laid on Jesus the iniquity of us all. Sweet truth. 

“He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” Isaiah 53:12 

Think of the wonder of the grace and mercy and sacrifice of Jesus Christ for sinners! Think of Jesus giving his life for you. And today, take comfort. Take strength. Take courage. Receive forgiveness. And go out to live and serve him who died for you.