11 October 2020

And the Lord will destroy on this mountain
   the shroud that is cast over all peoples,
   the sheet that is spread over all nations;
he will swallow up death for ever.
Then the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces,
   and the disgrace of his people he will take away from all the earth,
   for the Lord has spoken.
From Isaiah 25: 6-10, NRSV

This Reading is often used at funerals – mainly because of these beautiful words. They are words that will resonate with countless people around the world today – whether their loss is through Covid-19 or other illness – through war – or famine – or any of the countless things afflicting our planet at the moment. It is as if the whole world is covered in a shroud – wrapped in a winding sheet – and many people are sad – not a little unhappy, but deeply and painfully sad. We long for the day when God will fulfil this promise – when the tears of those in sorrow are wiped away and hope is reborn.

• • How does reading these words make you feel?
  • Where in the world do people need to hear these words of hope and promise?

Pray today for those who come to mind as needing to hear of God’s tender love. Be open to the possibility that you may be the person to give comfort to someone in need of it today.