Light Sets the World Free

Photo by Dale Cruse

Scripture: Isaiah 9:4-5

For You shall break the yoke of their burden and the staff on their shoulders, The rod of their oppressor, as at the battle of Midian.  For every boot of the booted warrior in the battle tumult, And cloak rolled in blood, will be for burning, fuel for the fire.

Insights: For the third straight day we observe military language in this passage from Isaiah nine.  Notice the words oppressor, battle, booted warrior, tumult, blood and fuel.  The imagery is that of a victoriously good empire coming into a vile and evil dictatorship and delivering the people from their oppression.  In a simi-modern context think back to video you have seen of the Allied Forces which entered into Dachau or Auschwitz.  Think of the liberating moment of seeing lives who were freed from a yoke of burden that almost led to death for many of these prisoners.  Satan may not, as of yet, have us locked up as physical prisoners of war, but he does imprison many in the mind.  He places burdens of guilt from past sins.  He reminds with oppressive attacks of our past failures.  He strives to bloody our testimony with faithless acts.  He is more vile than any earthly oppressor has ever been.  Jesus, however, comes crashing on the scene and tells us He has delivered us from such tyranny.  We are able to take on His yoke which is light and easy.  We are able to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us.  He transforms our situation and takes all of the enemies weapons and turns them into fuel for the fire.  They will be burned up and we will be set free.  Beloved, Satan attacks all of humanity.  We, who are born again, are to be lifeguards throwing a ring buoy out to save the drowning victims of this atrocious battle.  It is my prayer you and I will be intentional about sharing Jesus love to those who are under a burden of pain and suffering.  They need a Redeemer and His name is Jesus.

Questions:

 1. Have you been set free by Jesus?

 2. What burdens have you been bearing that you need to release over to the Lord?

Prayer: Father, thank You breaking the yoke of my burdens and removing the oppression from my enemy.  Thank You for setting me free from my captivity.  Amen.

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