Lord, King, and Savior
Scripture Reading — Isaiah 32:1-8
Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert. . . .
How amazing parents are! They sacrifice so much for their children and are eager to provide opportunities for them. A key preoccupation of seafarers during their visits to ports around the world is to buy books, toys, and clothes to bring back for their children. Parents show love and protection in so many ways for their children, and God does the same for us.
In Isaiah 32, God shares a wonderful announcement. This comes in the midst of warnings to God’s people, who have turned away from him to rely on the power of other nations (see Isaiah 28-31). But even though the people have been unfaithful, Isaiah reminds them that God has promised a kingdom of righteousness.
Today we know that the King who “will reign in righteousness” is Jesus, and leaders who follow his ways will rule with justice. This means that everyone—young and old, men and women, parents and children—all will be able to flourish and learn and grow in peace.
God’s kingdom is a refuge from the storms and troubles of life. The Savior, Jesus, has given us new life and promises it “to the full” (John 10:10). We need not fear or dread the future. Families and communities can thrive. And our King invites us to welcome others in from the storm.
Lord, King, and Savior, you are our refuge and strength. You care for us with love and compassion. Help us to care for and love others as you have done for us. Amen.
About the author — Jason Zuidema and David Rozeboom
Dr. Jason Zuidema is executive director of the North American Maritime Ministry Association (namma.org) and an elder in the Église réformée du Québec. David Rozeboom serves as chaplain at the Montreal Ministry to Seafarers of the Christian Reformed Church (ministrytoseafarers.org). The authors thank Kevin Walker, NAMMA director of programs, for editorial assistance.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!