40 Days of Lent: A Spiritual Journey Day Twelve

Day 12: Say the words of Isaiah 43:1-7 as a prayer. Try putting your name in where it says “Jacob” and “Israel.” Do that once, then again, then

three times and more if you need to."

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Today's suggested activity somewhat mystified me.  I read the verses (see below) and am not sure I understand them.  Obviously I am not a Bible scholar.  As near as I can interpret would be prayed for here is the reunion with God as promised is his covenant with Jacob and with Israel.  But what does this mean for me?

I had to ponder a bit further.  I have come to believe that no matter what happens in our lives, the true essence of who we are will never be damaged or die.  That is the eternal in us.  The deeper question here then becomes the belief in an afterlife.  And of course all that is based on faith.  Without faith, I wonder, what would we have?  And there is the true reason to pray. 

No, I am no Bible scholar.  I am sure someone will help me understand the meaning behind this passage.  In the meantime, the thought that keeps going through me mind is that all we think and speak can be a prayer.  What we give our attention to becomes our reality.  That is why I interpret this to be an admonishment of sorts to remain mindful.  We need to be mindful of what we think, say and do.  And are practice every day brings us closer to our true and eternal selves.  

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Isaiah 43:1-7 New International Version

Israel’s Only Savior

1 But now, this is what the LORD says— 

   he who created you, Jacob, 

   he who formed you, Israel: 

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; 

   I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 

2 When you pass through the waters, 

   I will be with you; 

and when you pass through the rivers, 

   they will not sweep over you. 

When you walk through the fire, 

   you will not be burned; 

   the flames will not set you ablaze. 

3 For I am the LORD your God, 

   the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; 

I give Egypt for your ransom, 

   Cush[a] and Seba in your stead. 

4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight, 

   and because I love you, 

I will give people in exchange for you, 

   nations in exchange for your life. 

5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you; 

   I will bring your children from the east 

   and gather you from the west. 

6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ 

   and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’ 

Bring my sons from afar 

   and my daughters from the ends of the earth— 

7 everyone who is called by my name, 

   whom I created for my glory, 

   whom I formed and made.”