Friday 29 March 2024
But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. (v. 5)
Background
Isaiah 40-55 is a dramatic depiction of the Israelites' exile in Babylon and subsequent return home through God’s intervention. Today’s reading is the last of four passages in Isaiah 40-55 that feature an unnamed 'suffering servant'. It is through this servant’s suffering that the people are healed and redeemed. The passage depicts a figure whose appearance was nothing special (53:2), who was despised and rejected by others (53:3) and perceived to be struck down by God (53:4). Yet, as the passage continues, it is revealed that his suffering was on behalf of the very people who despised and rejected him (53:5) and that ultimately God not only declared him righteous but the one who makes many righteous (53:11).
Today is Good Friday, when Christians commemorate Jesus' death by crucifixion. You can read what happened here. Most Christians recognise Jesus as the suffering servant in this passage and rightly cherish it as such and this passage is traditionally read at church services today.
In the spirit of Christian love, it is also important to recognise and respect that people of the Jewish faith have a different opinion on the suffering servant’s identity. Numerous references to Israel as God’s servant within the Book of Isaiah coupled with the Jewish people’s suffering in exile followed by their restoration by God leads many within Judaism to maintain that Israel is the suffering servant that Isaiah speaks of.
The idea of one who suffered on behalf of others and who was ultimately exonerated and exalted by God is a theme at the heart of both Judaism and Christianity. In both bringing Israel home from exile and in Jesus’ resurrection, God demonstrates God’s ability to bring new life through suffering. It is through serving others that we are most fully aware of God’s grace to us.
To Ponder:
- What is most important to you in this suffering servant passage?
- Has there ever been a time when you have despised or even rejected someone because they were of a different faith or because they held a different theological opinion to you?
- When are the times you are most aware of God’s grace in your life?
Prayer
God of all, help us to recognise and celebrate that in the suffering servant we find a common trust in you to bring newness of life out of the direst of circumstances and situations. Amen.
Bible notes author: Deacon Sally Wheadon
Sally Wheadon is a deacon, currently serving in the Islington and Camden Mission Circuit in the London District.