What more was there to do for my vineyard that I have not done in it? When I expected it to yield grapes, why did it yield wild grapes?
Isaiah 5:4 NRSV
Isaiah 5:1-7 tells the story of a vineyard owner. The land is the best for growing conditions; he clears away the stones and plants the best vines. But, when harvest time comes, he is disappointed; he finds only bad fruit–wild grapes.
In the parable, the vineyard owner, God, lays the vineyard, Israel and Judah, to waste. But, of course, this isn't the end of the story; while God allows them to be carried off into captivity for a time, he also promises a future time of hope, not just for Israel but for us all, when God would create a new vineyard through his Son, Jesus Christ. Yet, while we have this sure hope, we must remain vigilant of the wild grapes of sin. If allowed to root, they can become invasive and smother out the good fruit God desires of us.
Gracious and loving, Father, we thank you for second chances. Thank you for your Son Jesus Christ, who paid the great price for our sin, and the Holy Spirit who guides us in righteousness. But, we confess, we have allowed wild grapes to creep into our lives. Forgive us; we pray and root them from our souls. Help us to bear good fruit that glorified you. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Commentaires