Questions for Reflection

Who is God’s servant? What will nations and world leaders say about God’s servant not “looking the part” (see 52:13-15)?  Even though Israel is explicitly told why their leader, God’s servant, will not “look the part” of a conquering soldier (See 53:5-6), will anyone take it to heart (See 53:8)? What should be your response to what you have learned today about this servant (See 53:12, 51:17; 52:1, 11)? Why is our focus greater when faced with a challenge?

Many times, in sports, the team not expected to win or considered the underdog wins. I believe the reason is that when faced with a challenge, that’s when the focus is the highest. Teams pull for their team members because there is a feeling of “we need each other”. Each member of the team is focused on fulfilling their role for the team instead of meeting personal goals.

The challenge for Christians is overcoming the enemy or the devil. In Christianity there is a need for teamwork so that each member fulfills their role to benefit the team. Let us today look up to Father God, focus on the work accomplished by Jesus on the cross, and ask for the Spirit to guide as we help each other meet the challenge.

Reflecting on the questions for reflection above as we read Isaiah 53, God’s servant as prophesized in the passage is Jesus. No one would take the prophecy at heart because it tells that the servant would be despised, rejected, and held to low esteem.  He would be considered punished by God for his pain and suffering (v. 3).

Nations and world leaders would say that God’s servant does not “look the part” because of not being a conquering soldier but instead, a servant crucified on a cross. Noted is that we know Jesus came from a small town, worked as a carpenter, never wrote a book, or never held a public office.

Our response to what we’ve learned in today’s passage is to understand that God choose to save the world through a humble servant. Many times, we tend to overlook what’s extraordinary. Let us therefore look for the unseen qualities in others because God can use anyone for His great purposes. Those we don’t expect can do extraordinary things beyond what we even imagine.

Let us be thankful for the productive work of others and appreciate them. Let us see things from a higher perspective like a hawk looks down for food to eat. Let us see what food for the soul is available to feed the Spirit within. Let us see what others don’t see … appreciating the qualities in others and knowing that everyone has something unique to offer.

This day with You God, we face a common enemy. We need to pull together to defeat the enemy. Let us trust in Jesus as our leader. Help us to stay alert, hold fast to Your word, and follow the guiding principles taught by Jesus. Your plan for us is a big plus for our life now and in the future. May we constantly set our eyes on the unseen and eternal toward the reward of eternal peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.