He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice.” vss. 2-3
Isaiah 42:1-9
As the prophet laid out his vision for Israel, he uses the term “Servant” in describing the nation’s work. The new Israel will not use military might to force its will upon the world, but will instead faithfully, quietly, and doggedly live as a Servant to bring light to all nations. After the death of Jesus his followers saw in Isaiah’s words the perfect description of Jesus’ work–he was the Suffering Servant who gently and silently brought transformation. It’s a wonderful analogy, one that can be embraced by all who call themselves “Christian.” We are the new Israel, the Body of Christ, and we have been chosen and empowered to bring forth justice in the land. We won’t try to overpower or dominate others but in quiet and gentle ways we’ll humbly serve and love, tending the bruised and fanning dimly burning wicks. Some might scoff at such methods or call them outmoded, but we know better. Servants have been operating behind the scenes and living the Jesus way for many generations and we can see the fruits of their humble labor all over the globe. Through them the blind have seen and prisoners have been set free, and the light of Christ has shone brightly for all to see–and now it’s our turn to take up the torch.
Thought for the Day: Why is the servant role hard for some?
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