Isaiah’s prophecy in chapter 53 is fulfilled in Jesus some 6 centuries later. In this passage, he writes:

“Surely he took up our infirmities

and carried our sorrows,

yet we considered him smitten by God,

smitten by him and afflicted.

He was pierced for our transgressions,

he was crushed for our iniquities;

the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,

and by his wounds we are healed.”

In other words, Jesus was going to be self-sacrificial in order to relieve us. He was ready to carry the burdens that we by nature bear. Why should someone “take up” someone else’s infirmities? Is it not out of compassion and love for the one to be relieved? But, the passage states, we did not recognise that this was the case – in fact we considered that he was under the judgement and curse of God: that he just died his own cruel death. But this is not true, Jesus had no reason to die: he was and is eternal and he never sinned and thus did not deserve death (Romans 6v23).

Think on this. Hand your difficulties and sorrows over to him. Do this until a thankfulness rises up within you to your awesome Saviour.

But, we should consider more, for Jesus calls us to follow him. What does it mean for me today to be sacrificial for those around me?

May the Lord enable us to be people who lay down our own rights for the benefit of others (John 15v13),

With love and blessing,

Roland