Saturday 18 June 2022

Psalm 148

Background

Isaiah was a prophet in the turbulent days prior to the fall of Israel to the Assyrians. He saw that the real threat to Israel was not just their powerful northern neighbour, but the Israelites' failure to obey God, and their lack of holy living. In this chapter, Isaiah has a vision of God on the throne in the Temple, within which Seraphs cover their faces for they were not allowed to look upon the holiness of God. The vision resounds with a song expressing God’s glory, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory." (v. 3)

Aware of his sin, Isaiah says, "Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips" (v. 5), and then, unexpectedly receives forgiveness and a commission to serve the Lord. This dramatic and visually rich scene is the turning point in Isaiah’s life, as he then challenges the whole nation of Israel to respond to the Holy God by living holy lives.

The short hymn sung by the seraphim is still sung daily as part of Jewish Morning prayers, and in Christian worship is found in both the Communion service liturgy and verses such as Bishop Heber’s hymn:

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

 Much of the Old Testament repeats the phrase, ‘Holy One of Israel’, a title that implies awe and in this passage ‘terror’, when Isaiah sees the Temple filled with smoke and its foundations being shaken.

 This passage, however, introduces the idea that the holiness of God has the power to render humans helpless, but also that holiness can also bring forgiveness. Isaiah’s response is unequivocal, as he says, “Here am I; send me!” (v. 8)

To Ponder:

• Where else do you see in the Bible stories of holiness bringing forgiveness?
•  How do you balance calling God ‘Abba’ with also remembering the awe-inspiring picture of Isaiah?
•  What does living a holy life mean for us today?