[Difference Makers ls] A Graceful TouchSample

A Graceful Touch

In Isaiah 6, we find the call and mission of Isaiah. This event takes place the year King Uzziah died (in 739 BC) which was also the year that Rome was founded. In the Old Testament timeline, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob lived around 2000 BC. David and Solomon reigned around 1000 BC and then the kingdom was split, with Judah on the South and Israel in the North. Isaiah’s time is from about 740 BC to 700 BC. 

Some history: Rome is founded as Israel’s downfall begins. When Jesus Christ shows up, the Pharisees are so out of it they don’t recognize the Messiah, and the Romans are so empowered they crucify the Messiah. Israel is headed down, Rome is heading up. Why is this important? It is history. This is a real account. This is true, not a fairy tale. These people really lived and these events really happened. 

Isaiah has a vision of the Lord surrounded by seraphim. This is the only mention of seraphim in the Bible. Each seraph has six wings: two wings cover the face, to show humility; two wings cover the feet, in reverence; and two wings were used to fly. And one seraph called out to another, “Holy, holy, holy.” The holiness of God amazes Isaiah. Difference makers are amazed by the Lord. And they also realize the difference between God and human beings. Isaiah recognizes that he is a man of unclean lips, living among people of unclean lips. You and I—we are not God. God is the one with the plan; we are the ones with the problems. 

Notice that Isaiah specifically says, “My lips are unclean.” Where Isaiah acknowledges his sin, Jesus forgives. He’s not afraid or intimidated by our sin. He makes us clean. 

Isaiah didn’t climb up to the altar to try to pull out the burning coal with his hands to become holy. The seraph brought the coal to Isaiah and touched his lips with it. Where does God come first? Right on the lips. Matthew 12:34 says that from the overflow of the heart, the mouth will speak. God wants to work deeply in Isaiah before He works clearly through him. Difference makers receive a graceful touch.

Do I see the holiness of God and the contrast of my sin? Am I willing to confess my sin to receive God’s graceful touch?