In an age rife with temptations to constantly seek self-validation, it seems that the prospect of appreciation, esteem and exclusivity has become something that many people pursue. They strive to present themselves in various ways to gain validation from others, until eventually that validation becomes a destructive addiction. Modern people no longer have the time to recognise who they are and what their purpose is in this world. Yet, as people of faith, these two questions are of the utmost importance. The Bible consistently shows that we are His people, called to manifest God’s work in the world.
The nation of Judah carried on God’s promise to the patriarchs of Israel. For ever and ever, God is the Lord over Israel, and Israel is His people. Therefore, Israel is called to maintain a relationship with God and not to worship any other gods. To obey His commands and uphold His decrees. That is the meaning of Israel’s election. Their status as the chosen people is not meant to pamper or lull them into complacency, but to remind them of the task they bear. The nation became His Servant and God became the Lord over Israel.
Isaiah 42 reaffirms Israel’s calling as the Servant of the Lord. He is a servant of great charisma who leads people to God with gentleness. There is absolutely no violence in the servant’s way of working. The Servant is called to carry out the work of liberation for fellow human beings by becoming the mediator of the covenant for humankind, a light to the nations, opening the eyes of the blind, bringing those condemned to prison out of confinement, and those sitting in darkness out of the dungeon (v. 6). Unfortunately, this servant has instead become “deaf and blind”. They have forgotten the mission entrusted to them by the Master, until finally God has punished them with such severe discipline. Let us be grateful that, little by little, this servant is coming to his senses and remembering his duty.
Dear Friends of the Bible, amidst the pressures of worldly values and the illusions of the modern age, we are invited to keep a clear mind and remember our mission. Indeed, we are the servants of the Lord, called to carry out the Master’s great work. The world is beset by various sorrows and misfortunes. Oppression and injustice have become commonplace realities in the world. Will we ignore these realities by becoming trapped in a ceaseless quest for self-validation, or will we begin to turn our hearts and gaze towards them and take concrete action? The calling to be servants of God means showing concern and taking action in a world that is not well. It may feel strange, as we will be different from the rest of the world. Yet that is what it means to be His chosen ones.
