Today’s scripture: Isaiah 57:14-21 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (John Seksay):
I have often heard the maxim “There is no rest for the wicked!” I had naturally assumed that it came from the Bible, but I had no idea of the source or context. In today’s reading I see a close match:
21 “There will be no peace, says my God, for the wicked.”
As usual, the sound bite is not the whole message.
Have you ever had a falling out with either (or both) of your parents? Or maybe with your spouse, or sibling. It’s an intensely strained situation that can last moments, days, or years. It is emotionally draining experience on all sides that can fester as long as neither side is willing to bridge the gap. The original love and caring that fed the relationship can get buried under a lot of crap. But that just means it is hidden from us in our current circumstances. It is not destroyed, just walled off. Today’s reading speaks of such a separation that is about to be addressed because of humbleness and contrition on one side and grace on the other. Even in the midst of the anger, God senses the goodness in some of his people. They may be mistaken, or misled, or just willful. But they have a willingness in them to bridge the divide and be reunited. To them an olive branch is extended and an offering of peace is given. The path will be reopened and the relationship restored.
That’s the way when both sides look for an opening; walls can have doors appear in them. Many times, it’s just a matter of allowing the dust to settle and not keep stirring the same pot. But, as the final verses point out, some people just can’t seem to let go, be still, and come to know. For the wicked, there is no rest from keeping the wall up, keeping the way shut. There is no rest for the wicked because anger and alienation require constant, exhausting maintenance!
Thought for the day: Find time to rest your body, your mind, and your spirit as needed. Let the dust settle. Let the path to peace become visible!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.