Isaiah 43:1-7,19; Romans 8:35-39 As the fires rage in California this week leaving entire towns destroyed including its churches it’s easy to wonder where God is in all this. These two passages declare God’s love for us which nothing not even fire cannot separate us from. Isaiah encourages us not to fear for God has redeemed us. We are God’s – due to this God is with us like a loving parent. So, when we pass through the waters and rivers of life (barriers) you won’t be overwhelmed by them knowing God is on your side. Isaiah is reminding them of the crossing of the Red Sea and the prophets crossing the river Jordan. Then the verse quite apropos for today: “When you walk through the fires, the flames shall not consume you.” He is reminding them of the story of Shadrach, Meshech and Abednego who escaped the flames they were sent into. Your life like theirs is so precious to the Lord that your house and town may burn down but you will be saved. I remember when I was growing up we h...

  Isaiah 60: 1-6, Matthew 2: 1-12   Isaiah is sharing a vision of a restored Israel. Into the darkness your light – the glory of the Lord will rise upon you. He tells of not only nations but of kings will come to this light. He talks about the restoration of all they have lost. Nations will bring camels and food from the sea. Interestingly the kings will come and bring gold and frankincense and proclaim the praise of the Lord. Does gold and frankincense ring a bell and the statement that kings will present it? Yes it goes with our Matthew passage we all celebrate of the Three Wise Men presenting gifts to the young Jesus. We just had Epiphany Sunday where we celebrate these men, their gifts, and yes their worship and praise of Jesus. Did these men read the book of Isaiah or did Isaiah see them in his vision? They consult with the scribes and chief priests who direct them to Micah 5:2 which states the Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem. A light is spoken of as a star which...