Source/Author: Dr Michael Dalseno

The prophet Isaiah does not conclude his discourse on “the suffering servant” (Chs 49-57) without a decisive reference to the power of the Word to change lives and change the landscapes in which we live and influence.

THE WORD: CHANGING LIVES, CHANGING LANDSCAPES

By Dr.   D

The prophet Isaiah does not conclude his discourse on “the suffering servant” (Chs 49-57) without a decisive reference to the power of the Word to change lives and change the landscapes in which we live and influence. This occurs in Ch. 55.9-13, of which 5 aspects of the Word are highlighted.

Firstly, there is the high call of the Word (v.9). We have to start thinking God’s way (v.9). His thoughts are “higher than your thoughts,” and if we fail to see God’s perspective we are very likely of being consumed by our own.

Secondly, there is the influence of the Word (v.10). In the metaphor of the rain and snow coming down from heaven, the Word “waters” the earth and makes it “bear and sprout.” It then furnishes “seed to the sower” and “bread to the eater,” depending on whether you are the giver or the receiver of this divine provision. The water of the Word (Eph.5.26) brings an oasis of life to a desert of doubt.

Thirdly, there is the assurance of the Word (v.11). Make no mistake; God’s Word always achieves what it is supposed to achieve. It forever hits its target, even if it does not look to us like it does or does not satisfy our schedule. Whenever His Word goes out it never “returns empty.” God’s Word never fails. It’s just that we sometimes fail to see that it never fails.

Fourthly, there is the required response of the Word (v.12). “For you shall go out” is the instruction, correlating perfectly with the command to “go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (Matt. 28.19). And notice that it is a going out with joy; “How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news” (Is. 52.7, Ro.10.15). This joy is reciprocal, for the trees of the field will “clap their hands.” Both sender and recipient are wrapped together in melodious praise and thanksgiving.

Finally, there is the impact of the Word (v.13). The mighty cypress replaces the thorn bush, and the beautiful myrtle replaces the wild and untamed nettle. Such is the end product of God’s Word; it simply cannot help but change lives and change landscapes. May the Word of God wash over our lives, making them bear and sprout.