“You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”
– Isaiah 58:11
This Bible verse from Isaiah is a favorite of mine. I adore the symbolism of a lush garden that has been loved and nurtured. To me, this is a promise. I can absolutely experience what it feels like to have the One Presence care for me and encourage me to thrive.
However, let’s take an expanded look at this passage. The preceding verses tell us to “do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, …spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”
We have something to do if we wish to experience the promise of restoration and refreshment. Not only must we pay attention to our words, our actions must show care and concern for others. Even though these instructions were written hundreds of year ago, they certainly seem timely in the preponderance of internet outrage and the darkness of racial injustice. But take heart, for your Light will rise in the darkness!
Your Light will rise in the darkness…
Remember to take time each day to be still and focus your thoughts upon the Divine. It doesn’t matter what Name you use or how you think about It, as long as the Name or the Thought means something to you. Stay with this and feel the Presence as a space within your mind and a feeling in your heart.
Isaiah tells us that “The Lord (the Great Law of Life) will guide you always”. You know how to serve, in that wonderful way that only you can. As you “water the sun-scorched land” with your prayer and your service, you are restored and refreshed.