People often become so arrogant. We feel we can do and master everything. Until, in the end, that arrogance plunges us into an even deeper sin. If we are willing to surrender and be humble before Him, we will see God’s grace so clearly in our lives. Repentance paves the way for true restoration, provided we are truly willing to be moulded by Him. 

That is the main message in our reading today. Israel is depicted as crying out in repentance. They realise the wrongs they have committed against God. Indeed, from these sinful acts came discipline and judgement from God. What they considered to be righteousness turned out to be nothing more than unholy rituals and traditions (v. 6). Sin ultimately destroys the intimate relationship woven with God. 

Therefore, radical steps are needed to set things right. First and foremost, the people recognise God’s love, which was present first and embraced them. It is true that God had once hidden His face, but this was entirely the result of their own actions. With full awareness, Israel turned back and surrendered their lives to God. In truth, they are merely clay, which God has the right to shape as He pleases (v. 8). Israel is but the work of God’s hands. 

Such humility brings an awareness of our complete dependence on God. We have space to reflect on what has happened so far. So that, ultimately, our relationship with God is restored. This is based on His grace, which we receive through our surrender to the Lord. May we be enabled to see ourselves as clay, ready to be moulded into whatever the Potter desires.