Isaiah 53:3

He was despised and rejected by mankind,
a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
Like one from whom people hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him in low esteem ~ Isaiah 53:3

Such a contrast in this verse to the messages of promise for a new King that would be the Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God! We turn to look at a man we cannot and will not look at in this scripture. He is one the world has turned away from instead of one which is gravitated toward with gifts and honour and rejoicing. This is not another, however, this is exactly the same of which was said his mother would be a virgin and would conceive a baby that would be called "Jesus", or Yeshua, which means "to deliver" or "to rescue." Here we read of one who needs rescuing! Here is our Saviour! As he walked toward the cross to give us life, he was cursed by those around him. As the nails pierced his hands and his feet he was mocked. As his garments were gambled over by the Roman soldiers, he hung naked on the tree. As his soul was separated from his Father, he took on our sin and was separated in the chasm of darkness. As he died, as his side was pierced with the sword, Satan laughed with delight in his conquest. But Satan did not see beyond the grave. And neither do some in our society. But read on, for this is the outcome of the One who died for you and me: "After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many and he will bear their iniquities" (Isaiah 53:11). Our Suffering Servant lives!


Devotion by Pastor Julia

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