Dave is the Rector of the joint benefice of St Nicholas, Stevenage and St Mary, Graveley. He began his ministry in Stevenage in 2011.
Writing to the returned exiles, who hadn’t found the return home as wonderful as they had hoped, Isaiah brings them a part of God’s glorious plan for the world: of a people transformed by his light, who shine with his glory so that others are brought into the joy, peace and blessing of God’s family.…
Our first on-line all-age family service. Download the song sheet from here: https://saintnicholaschurch.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/song-sheet-for-family-worship-25-March-2020.docx Then watch the video!
A tough passage- but one that, considering current events, should give us much cause for thought and reflection.
Isaiah gives the complacent returnees- leaders and people- a blunt expose of their sins and a stern warning of the coming judgement. But the situation is not hopeless- because the LORD himself has made a way of forgiveness.
Isaiah reminds the returned exiles that being back in the land isn’t enough- they now need to live as God’s people. He then issues a call to holiness and Sabbath observance, a call which results in blessings for obedient. But this invitation to belong and obey is for all people everywhere, and to be part…