11 March 2024

For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth;
the former things shall not be remembered
or come to mind.
But be glad and rejoice for ever
in what I am creating;
for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy,
and its people as a delight.

From Isaiah 65:17-21, NRSV

In recent readings from the Old Testament, we have heard several times of the waywardness of the “Chosen People” and of the pain and suffering brought about by this. Today we have a complete contrast which celebrates the climax of the joy and renewal experienced after the return from exile in Babylon. Long before, in the words of the prophet Ezekiel, God had promised a new Jerusalem. Many years passed before the fulfilment of this prophecy and here we get a sense of God’s joy in finally bringing this new creation to birth. The people who had returned from Babylon found a city in ruins where they were not particularly welcome. In the drudgery of their daily lives they must have despaired of ever restoring their Holy City to its former splendour. Yet God saw what they could not yet see and, having forgotten their sins, was now ready to restore the people and their city.

• • What impact do you think Isaiah’s words had on those who first heard them?
  • In whom does God delight today?

Spend some time today reflecting on the opportunities God gives you to rebuild and renew your life.