In the midst of this pandemic, I have found invitations to be challenging. Sometimes I can say, “Yes,” while other times I feel I must say, “No.” However, when I sit down and read this invitation in Isaiah 55, I am overwhelmed with peace. The good news is that God’s invitation is consistent and true. He only asks that we come and receive.
He invites us all, those in need and those in plenty, to attune our ears to His voice. He promises fullness and delight if we sit at His feet and listen. He invites us to be satisfied by His goodness. “Come,” He says. We can say, “Yes,” and move toward Him with assurance that we will be sustained. What an incredible invitation!
I love Henri Nouwen’s words, “This is the mystery of the Christian life—to receive a new self, identity, which depends not on what we can achieve but on what we are willing to receive.”
While my daily life during quarantine may look quite different than it did before, I am reminded that there is true fulfillment in my intimacy with the Lord. In fact, He promises, “I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.” This promise does not depend on my actions. It only depends on my devotion to the One who loves me best.
I am confident that we are far better equipped for the work of restoration in our city and our world when we make space to respond to God’s invitation. In receiving, He spurs us all on to join Him in kingdom work. In devotion, He transforms us.