‘Oh oh, Mummy’s on a rampage’ is code in my house for that time when the deep desire to pull everything out and have a big sort through, launches me into action. The house becomes complete chaos as I empty drawers, rearrange furniture and pack charity donation boxes full with toys and clothes. Whilst the reorganising and purge of material belongings brings me great satisfaction, this time of transition can send the rest of my family into fits of anxiety over what might suddenly disappear!
Life is full of tumultuous transitions; sometimes exciting and other times challenging. Often both. Change can uproot, unsettle and destabilise us, especially when it is unexpected and unchosen. It can even bring immense suffering.
Isaiah 43 is set against a devastating change for The Kingdom of Judah; one unexpected and unchosen: the Babylonians had conquered the people and exiled them from their homes. The capital city was destroyed and their holiest places torn down. The period was one of profound suffering and disruption; of political and cultural upheaval.
I imagine they felt heart-wrenching grief for what they had lost and overwhelming anxiety about an uncertain future. I imagine they might have hoped for a miracle – one that would prevent further suffering or even restore them to their homes. I imagine they looked to the prophet, Isaiah, with great expectation. But God did not take away their burdens.
Instead, Isaiah recalls God’s words: ‘Do not fear’. God says, ‘I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you […] When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned’. God did not say ‘if’ you pass through difficulties, but ‘when’. They would have to endure suffering.
So what was there to hope for? God’s message was this: He would be with them in their suffering. He knew and He loved them, and He would be their strength, ‘For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour; […] you are precious and honoured in my sight, and […] I love you, […] Do not be afraid, for I am with you” (Isaiah 43).
As we individually and collectively pass through difficult times of transition, my hope is that as God promised He would be there for us, we will try to be there for one another, that we take time to get to know and to love one another, and that when we feel strong, we look to uplift and strengthen others.
May peace be with you,
Chaplain Jest
