Isaiah 54

Summary: A woman who is barren and can’t have children in ancient Israel experienced shame and rejection. Yet here the infertile woman is singing loudly. Her house is so full of children and people it needs an expansion. God reverses her condition. Now no accusation or taunt can remain. They are vindicated by God. What we need: Security, approval, honour. To not be disgraced but to be held in esteem. Knowing that society approves of us is a longing of our heart. Why we can’t: shame that produces fear. Inadequacy. Disappointment in the eyes of others. God has turned his face away from us. Why Jesus can: Jesus took our shame. He was spat upon, stripped naked, and slapped. All to shame him and make him an outcast. He was crucified beyond the walls of the city. An outcast’s death. God turned his face away from Christ. He prayed with a broken heart: My God My God why have you forsaken me? Now what: When fear and shame is displaced by God’s acceptance and honour we become confident.