God’s Saving Word: Joy
Introduction
Isaiah 65:17–25: Today’s reading includes the promise of a new future for Jerusalem and its people. As a sign of God’s blessing, the new Jerusalem will be a place of good health, long life, and prosperity.
Scripture Reading
The New Creation
17 The Lord says, “I am making a new earth and new heavens. The events of the past will be completely forgotten. 18 Be glad and rejoice forever in what I create. The new Jerusalem I make will be full of joy, and her people will be happy. 19 I myself will be filled with joy because of Jerusalem and her people. There will be no weeping there, no calling for help. 20 Babies will no longer die in infancy, and all people will live out their life span. Those who live to be a hundred will be considered young. To die before that would be a sign that I had punished them. 21-22 People will build houses and get to live in them—they will not be used by someone else. They will plant vineyards and enjoy the wine—it will not be drunk by others. Like trees, my people will live long lives. They will fully enjoy the things that they have worked for. 23 The work they do will be successful, and their children will not meet with disaster. I will bless them and their descendants for all time to come. 24 Even before they finish praying to me, I will answer their prayers. 25 Wolves and lambs will eat together; lions will eat straw, as cattle do, and snakes will no longer be dangerous. On Zion, my sacred hill,[a] there will be nothing harmful or evil.”
Today’s Key Verse: Isaiah 65:17
The LORD says, “I am making a new earth and new heavens. The events of the past will be completely forgotten.”
Reflect
How do you envision the new creation described in today’s reading? What verses speak of joy and prosperity? What were your thoughts as you read these verses? What does today’s reading teach you about God?
Pray
God of hope and love, you fill my heart with joy. I trust in your promises, knowing that, even when I stray, you are always near. Thank you, Lord God, for calling me to return to you, hearing me when I pray, and restoring me to a right relationship with you. Gracious God, I will praise your holy name forever, Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Isaiah 66:1–24: The prophet delivers an oracle about matters of worship.