God's Word:
Please read Chapter 49 (Yes, I skipped 48). The chapter heading (in my Bible) is: "The future Redeemer." This next section in Isaiah will introduce concepts about the Messiah. Scholars differ as to whether this section is talking about a PRESENT judge, ruler or hero who would face Israel's enemies and lead them back to God or was this a prophetic voice that introduces Jesus? Regardless, today, we'll focus mostly on the first 7 verses of this chapter.
Something to think about:
This chapter begins with a challenging proposition for some of us. The "voice" speaking here, according to many scholars is that of the Messiah. He tells us that even before He was born, God called Him. Even before He was born. Wow.
Some people feel trapped when they read things like this, like God has their lives already mapped out and what if they don't like the roads He has chosen? Still others take comfort in this text, thinking "I have a purpose in God's plan!" It depends on how you view God and His role in our lives.
Personally, I'll take both Option A and B! I believe God does have a plan for us, but His plan takes into account my gifts and talents and encourages me to use these talents for the Kingdom. God's plan for my life is to be a pastor, not because He wants to dictate my life but because He knows that this is where I can be happiest and feel like I can make a contribution to the Kingdom. I am NOT more important to His plan than a teacher or a baker or a stay-at-home parent or anyone else – my being a pastor is the purpose meant for me to use my specific gifts and talents. It is important that we do what we have the gifts and talents to be good at. We'll not only be happier, but we'll also be more successful in what we've been called to do.
So, yes, I believe that God called the Messiah even before He was born, because the Messiah had the biggest job ever to accomplish – to give humanity the roadmap back to God and the example to prove we could do it. No one else could have done what Jesus ended up doing, but then again, no one can do what you have the potential to do. Are you working towards your Call or are you working against it? God has gifted you to do exactly what He called you to do – just like He did the Messiah. But the Messiah, and you and me, have to do it. If you don't know what your call might center on, think about your particular gifts and talents. I think that will point you in the right direction.
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