27 March 2024 Wednesday of Holy Week
The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious,
I did not turn backwards.
I gave my back to those who struck me,
and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard;
I did not hide my face
from insult and spitting.
The Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame;
he who vindicates me is near.
From Isaiah 50:4-9, NRSV
In today’s passage from the third of the songs of the “Suffering servant” we hear about the painful cost of discipleship. Despite his faithfulness to the Lord, the servant is humiliated and mistreated at the hands of enemies. For Isaiah this would have been in part a personal reflection on the way he was treated by those opposed to his message. The description also matches the suffering that Jesus endured on his journey to the Cross. The servant does not try to avoid or escape from the pain and disgrace that is inflicted. In the midst of his suffering, the servant does not look to blame God but looks to God for help and vindication.
- Why do you think the servant seems to accept the suffering that is inflicted on him?
- Does living as a Christian ever come at a price?
Pray today for those who endure insult and suffering because of their beliefs.
