Isaiah 51:1-3

“Listen to me, you that pursue righteousness, you that seek the Lord. Look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were dug.”  vs. 1

Many people have a strong interest in genealogy and ancestry. They like to trace their national and ethnic origins, and to learn as much as they can about their historical roots. Isaiah encouraged the Israelites to do exactly that as they languished in captivity, and advised them to look to the rock from which they had been hewn. He believed that such a search would draw them closer to the Lord. In looking to their ancestors they would discover their calling.

That’s a truth that some find hard to accept. They’ve bought into the notion that the future holds the secrets to happiness and bountiful living, and are always trying out the newest ideas and products that the influencers say will bring them the meaning and purpose they’ve always desired. And they’re downright obsessed with looking good and being wealthy! 

But when we look to the past we discover that, even though some of our forebearers led miserable lives, a good many of them had remarkable depth and profound faith. They served God through their entire lives, and rejoiced at the peace that filled their days. If we’ve been blessed with such a family, Isaiah would advise us to pay attention to their wisdom and singularity of purpose. They are the incarnation of the Rock which is the foundation of this world.

Thought for the Day: What strengths and values have I gotten from my ancestors?