2 December 2022

On that day the deaf shall hear
the words of a scroll,
and out of their gloom and darkness
the eyes of the blind shall see.
The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the Lord,
and the neediest people shall exult in the Holy One of Israel.

From Isaiah 29:17-24, NRSV

In previous chapters from the book of Isaiah, the prophet predicted great disasters such as the invasion of Jerusalem by the Assyrians. Isaiah clearly sees a need to offer some words of hope to keep up the spirits of the people. It could well be that Isaiah is not speaking just of physical deafness and blindness but of a future where political and social unrest will be overcome and the people will be able to live in joy and peace. Again it is the neediest people for whom Isaiah offers the greatest hope.

• • Why does Isaiah prophesy the greatest hope for the neediest people? 
  • is there anything that prevents you from seeing and hearing what God wants for you?

Pray today for all those who are physically or spiritually blind or deaf.