April 27

Introduction

Isaiah 54:1–17: Today’s reading describes the LORD’s love for and relationship with Israel and his promise to rebuild Jerusalem. The opening verses affirm that Jerusalem will once again be filled with God’s people, and that their descendants will occupy even more land.

Today’s Key Verse: Isaiah 54:5b

The holy God of Israel will save you—he is the ruler of all the world.

Reflect

What promises are given in today’s reading? Note the ways Jerusalem and Israel are described—as a childless woman, a young wife, a lonely widow (verses 1, 4, 6)—and how God is described as a husband (verses 5–6). What do these images suggest to you about God’s relationship with Israel? Reread verses 11–12. How is the future Jerusalem described? You may wish to compare these verses with Revelation 21:18–21, which describes the heavenly Jerusalem in much the same way. What does today’s reading teach you about God?

Pray

Holy God, I sing and shout for joy because of your faithfulness, and I trust in your promises and in your never-ending love. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Isaiah 56:1–8: God’s people will include all nations.