In this chapter, the Lord clarifies His kingdom is for ALL people willing to serve Him. Here’s the chapter in its entirety: “Be just and fair to all,” says the Lord. “Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you. Blessed are those who are careful to do this. Blessed are those who honor my Sabbath days of rest by refusing to work. And blessed are those who keep themselves from doing wrong.” (Yes, Lord!)
“And my blessings are for Gentiles, too, when they commit themselves to the Lord. Do not let them think that I consider them second-class citizens. And my blessings are also for the eunuchs. They are as much mine as anyone else. For I say this to the eunuchs who keep my Sabbath days holy, who choose to do what pleases me and commit their lives to me: I will give them – in my house, within my walls – a memorial and a name far greater than the honor they would have received by having sons and daughters. For the name I give them is an everlasting one. It will never disappear!”
“I will also bless the Gentiles who commit themselves to the Lord and serve him and love his name, who worship him and do not desecrate the Sabbath day of rest, and who have accepted his covenant. I will bring them also to my holy mountain of Jerusalem and will fill them with joy in my house of prayer. I will accept their burnt offerings and sacrifices, because my Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations. For the Sovereign Lord, who brings back the outcasts of Israel, says: I will bring others, too, besides my people Israel.” (Yes, Lord!!! You will open your arms to anyone willing to serve you, for you are a loving God!)
Sinful Leaders Condemned
Come, wild animals of the field! Come, wild animals of the forest! Come and devour my people! For the leaders of my people – the Lord’s watchmen, his shepherds – are blind to every danger. They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when danger comes. They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming. And they are as greedy as dogs, never satisfied. They are stupid shepherds, all following their own path, all of them intent on personal gain. (Wow! Lord, help us push back on our personal desires and selfishness, and serve you.)
“Come,” they say. “We will get some wine and have a party. Let’s all get drunk. Let this go on and on, and tomorrow will be even better.” (Isaiah 56)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Thank you for your love, compassion, and kindness, welcoming all of humankind to your fold. And, Lord, help us serve you over ourselves. We love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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