With so much confusion in my heart and sadness over our nation and more terrible news—mass shootings, wildfires, political controversies—I read the book of Isaiah for perspective. I read these simple words under the section called, “Invitation to the Thirsty” (Isaiah 55:6-7).
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.
I pray that the whole world seeks the Lord, calls on Him, forsakes sin, and turns to the Lord.
That’s what I pray we do: we seek, call, forsake, and turn.
What greater verbs apply to our lives? What better things might we do than these simple behaviors that mean everything?
And God? What action will He take?
God allows Himself to be found. He shows us mercy and freely pardons us. This is a God who removed the punishment for our sin in a single day through Jesus. And now, this promise stands true for all who receive Jesus as their Savior:
The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest (Isaiah 32:17-18).
Oh, that we would experience God’s mercy and pardon in widespread ways across our whole planet.