Hope for the Gentiles

Isaiah 49:6

[The Lord] says:  “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel;  I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

REFLECTION

A recent analysis of my DNA revealed my bloodline comes from the British Isles.  While revealing my anglo heritage, it also revealed that I am not Jewish but 100% Gentile.  The whole of the Biblical revelation tells of the Lord’s plan to use a particular faithful man’s progeny to bring about salvation for all mankind.  I am glad that from the days of old, revealed through the lips of prophets, this salvation was not limited to the descendants of Abraham only.   In Isaiah 49:6 we hear that the heart of God was to rescue the Jews from destruction and make “you (Jews) as a light to the nations”.  

His end goal, however, was that “salvation may reach to the ends of the earth”.  He was speaking not just to that generation but to all people in all times that “all might come within the reach of His saving embrace” as the Anglican Prayer for Missions says.  As a Gentile, I am glad I am adopted into the household of God by faith in Jesus the Messiah, who came to earth to save us from sin and death.

As a Gentile, I am glad that God’s heart is big enough not to limit eternal life to just a few based on genealogy or good works, or any other criteria.  Instead, He has made the way simple.  Believe the Gospel account of Jesus and you will enter eternal life not based on your bloodline but based on your faith.

PRAYER

Jesus, hope of the Gentiles and the Jews, thank you for the promise of eternal life.  We believe in you and your plan of salvation. Thank you that you allow all who put their trust in You by faith to enter into eternal life and live with you forever. Amen.

Written by the Rev. Dave Kulchar, Prior, NAMS Midwest (Indianapolis, Indiana, USA), and NAMS Prayer Coordinator.