The Nations

* I am taking a little break from doing my journey through Matthew to do devo's with my mission team. I'll pick Matthew back up towards the end of July.

Isaiah 49:1-6
There is a double meaning to what is written here. The first meaning is pretty surface: Isaiah is writing as the nation of Israel personified. The second meaning is only made clear in looking back through history, particularly through the cross. When I do that, it seems like all these things that are being said of Israel could be said of the Messiah. In fact, in some cases, it fits better as pointing to the Messiah. For example, in verse 6 where God says that it is too small thing a for his servant to restore Israel alone - God has bigger plans for his servant. He will be a light to the Gentiles and bring salvation to them as well.
First, I am struck by God's concern for the whole world. In the Old Testament, I too often limit his focus and concern to Israel but even there I can see God's plan for the whole world: Israel was supposed to be such an example to the other nations of what it was like to live only under the rule of God that the other nations would want to submit to God and be a part of his kingdom as well. Obviously God's concern for all the nations continues today. As I prepare to go to L.A., I pray that I will have God's heart for the people. He wants all people to know and respond to his glory. I can play a part in making his glory known.
Secondly, I am struck by the sovreignty of God. Before Israel was a nation, God already called it and had a purpose for it. Before Jesus was born on earth, God already had a plan. The same goes for me. God has a plan for my life and has had this plan from before I was even born. Part of his plan apparently involves me going to L.A. this summer. I wonder what he has waiting for me there.