Isaiah 51:4-6

“Listen to me, my people, and give heed to me, my nation; for a teaching will go out from me, and my justice for a light to the peoples.” vs. 4 

The prophet knew that, even though the people were living in captivity, Israel had a purpose that went beyond the present circumstances. Some day a teaching would go forth that would transform the world, and God’s justice would be a light to the nations. 

And whatever we might make of Israel’s place in the contemporary political situation, the prophet’s insight was correct. There is a transforming light that has come out of Israel and that now lights up the earth.

But it’s not related to the current turmoil and seemingly endless war in the Middle East. That terrible situation has nothing to do with God’s justice or mercy, but is a reflection of the human desire for power and dominion. It’s a horrendous symbol of humanity’s brokenness and lust for revenge. 

But the justice Isaiah was speaking of is rooted deeply in the teachings of the Law and its affirmation of God’s steadfast love for the humble and the lowly. That good news became incarnate in the life and ministry of Jesus and has spread to every nation on the globe. The core of that message is indeed found in the teachings of Israel and we can be thankful for the prophets and teachers who risked their lives to make sure that God’s Light has never gone out.

Thought for the Day: What part of my Jewish heritage is most precious to me?