post 53. Jesus the Provider

ISAIAH 61:3

“and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.”

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In the midst of a suffering nation of Zion, Isaiah reminds us that Jesus is the great provider.  He did not just give out of his abundance but gave it all.  Even to the point of death.  The King who was worthy of being bestowed the royal crown of beauty, was instead offered a crown of thorns.  He was literally trading riches for rags, beauty for ashes.

To Jesus, my Father, Savior, Helper, Lord, and Friend,

I thank you for always providing for me,
Your grace, for my disgrace,
Your crown, for my ashes,
Your delight, for my grief,
Your joy, for my sorrow,
Your hope, for my despair.

For taking the wrath deserved for me,
The thorn-laced crown,
The judgement-filled cup,
The guilt-ridden rags,
The shameful cross,
The painful death.

And giving me your perfect record,
Sinless and without fault,
Loving and merciful,
Kind and gentle,
Justifying and appeasing,
Fulfilled and offered.

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