“I know that when I pray, something wonderful happens. Not just to the person or persons for whom I’m praying, but also something wonderful happens to me. I’m grateful that I’m heard.” -Maya Angelou
Coming soon for the many participating in The Bible in 90 Days is one of the Bible’s Greatest Hits: Isaiah 40:31: “Those who wait in the Lord will renew their strength: they will rise up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be weary.” This scripture is so popular it has shown up on plaques, wall hangings, coffee mugs and t-shirts.
Though I’m among those who count this as a favorite scripture, of the 214 sermons I’ve offered at MCCDC beginning in 2010, guess how many times I’ve preached from Isaiah 40:31? If you guessed zero you are right! Though I’ve quoted it before, it has yet to serve as the primary preaching text.
That will change this Sunday! We will take a deeper dig into Isaiah 40:31, taking into consideration the story and surrounding scriptures that enrich its focus beyond its casual usage.
From one perspective, the musings of the prophet Isaiah form a prayer for troubled times: Babylon has stormed Judah, destroyed the Temple, and taken captives. In the midst of tragedy, Isaiah was keenly aware that many of his listeners are questioning the availability, compassion, and strength of God. Perhaps many in Isaiah’s community have given up on prayer and are considering the “powerful” gods of Babylon as an option. Isaiah raises questions in the midst of their questioning. He also offers what must seem to them like an unattractive invitation: Wait. They are tired of waiting, yet called to wait longer.
In the message Sunday we’ll look at the dynamics of waiting and its connection to prayer and action. Does anything happen when we wait and pray? Maya Angelou posits that indeed “something wonderful happens.” By the way, if you are reading The Bible in 90 Days, Isaiah 40:31 shows up on February 20. My message will be a sneak preview for you :–) In the meantime, see you Sunday at 9:00am and 11:00am.
Faithfully,
Rev. Dwayne
