In Isaiah, the Suffering Servant extends a most generous invitation. An invitation into the abundance of God’s welcome. An invitation that requires nothing of the recipient except an openness to acceptance. Unfortunately, as history has proven, rather than openness, the invitation is often met with reluctance.
Sometimes the reluctance stems from not feeling worthy of such an invitation, but more often, if honest, the closure comes from preference or pride. Preference for something else, whatever that else might be. Pride in wanting to pay our own way, not willing to admit that we are in need of the generosity of another.
So, this month, rather than praying a different prayer each week we have prayed the same prayer over and over again. We’ve prayed it for ourselves and for a named neighbor and for those in our Gospel Communities. This week, let’s pray it one last over our city. Beseeching the One who gave his life so that even those who think they have no need of him might receive God’s welcome.
As you’re praying, if a particular person’s name, a people group, or even another faith family comes to mind, pray them specifically into Isaiah 55:1-2. May our city hunger for, thirst after, and find satisfaction in Jesus.
Come, Dallas, a city who thirsts (Father, make us thirrsty), come to the waters;
and Dallas who has so much money, see that they need no money, to come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price, Dallas.
Why Dallas do you spend your money for that which is not bread,
and your labor for that which does not satisfy?
Listen diligently to us and eat what is good (Father, give us, your Church, opportunity and courage to speak your invitation to our city, and open hearts to recieve it),
and delight Dallas, in rich food—the body and blood of Jesus.
In his name we pray, amen.