Water
Scripture Reading — Isaiah 11:1-9
The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.
Isaiah 11:9
If we travel to the seashore or drive out to the beach, it’s fun to go swimming or just to wade in the cool water as the incoming tide laps at our ankles. Looking out, we see the great expanse of the waters. Geographers tell us that three quarters of the earth’s surface is covered with water.
Through the lens of Isaiah 11 we see how the sea can remind us of the earth being filled with “the knowledge of the Lord.” And what can we know about the Lord? Everything that the Word of God teaches.
Isaiah summarizes that teaching as he talks about a shoot “from the stump of Jesse.” This is a reference to Jesus, who became the One on whom the Spirit of the Lord rests. He has the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, of counsel and might, of the knowledge and fear of the Lord. His judgments are right and just, and his rule is faithful and true. In his kingdom all God’s creatures will live together in perfect peace, so that all may enjoy God’s blessing and full life as God intends. In this way the earth will be filled to overflowing with the knowledge of the Lord—in a way like the waters cover the sea.
In Jesus, this kingdom is present and growing. And here is more good news! As the Spirit rested on that vulnerable shoot, so Jesus sends the same Spirit into our lives, to enlighten us with wisdom, understanding, counsel, power, and knowledge and fear of the Lord.
Sovereign Lord, we do not always understand your ways. Assure us again that you are bringing about a new world filled with your righteousness and full life. In Jesus, Amen.
About the author — Gerrit J. Bomhof
Gary Bomhof is pastor of First Christian Reformed Church, Red Deer, Alberta. He and his wife, Jo-Ann, have four children and five grandchildren.
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