Crisis ConvertedSample

Theme: God is able. 

Crisis Converted Then:

Such grand promises of returning home may have clashed with the reality of the Israelite slaves in Babylon. God’s lofty words clanged against the threats of their captors. Yet, God assures his embattled minority to embrace his vision and fear Babylonian leaders no more. 

The Prophet inspires them by taking over a Canaanite creation myth in which the weather god Baal (here replaced by Yahweh) subdues a ferocious sea monster called Rahab. The real God of the world is not Baal, it is Yahweh! He reminds them of God’s creative work to dry up the seas and form dry land. Then he reminds them of the exodus through the Red Sea. These reminders all serve to give captive Israel hope. 

Crisis Converted Now:

God’s power knows no rival. He can decimate primordial creatures that we dare only dream about in nightmares. With a word, he scatters the world’s oceans to create a land for his people. With a breath, he parts seas to create a path of liberation for his chosen. God never fails. 

No matter what stands in your way - whether it’s imaginary frights, overwhelming odds or an unnavigable barrier - this God and Father of Jesus Christ is able. His word is sure. “The ransomed of the Lord will return.” What stands in your way today?