This well-known chapter is one of many passages in Isaiah that prophesies about Jesus our savior. These verses remind me of Rm 3:23-24, where we are described as sinners falling short of God’s glory, who can be justified through Jesus’ offer of redemption.
“He was despised and forsaken by men, a man of sorrows and knowing sickness… Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 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.” (v3-6 abr)
How often do we get caught up in our own minds and circumstances (for example in sorrow, grief, suffering or depression), and forget that others, even Jesus Himself, experience / experienced these things? When we struggle with something, Satan tries to make us feel like we’re the only one, isolating us from the help that we need.
Yet, scripture (and life experience) assures us that we are not alone, many others have similar experiences. This is one of the key reasons why Christ followers need to be in community with one another. I’ve discovered it is therapeutic to speak with others to hear their experiences, and share my own, so we may support and comfort each other.
Jesus designed the church for more than just evangelism – we’re also to strengthen and uphold each other in times of trouble. When we do this, it’s God Himself through the indwelling Holy Spirit who is offering supporting and comforting His church.
Father God, our Wise and Discerning Lord, thank you for gifting us with Your Holy Spirit. Please guide us to love one another, and seek the love of other Christ followers, so there may be healing. You tell us that You alone can forgive, yet if we confess our sin and struggles to each other we can experience healing. We thank You for such opportunities, and praise Your holy name for healing. May we honor and obey Your will in our lives, by caring for one another, while building Your kingdom here on earth. In Jesus’ name we glorify You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training