Jesus Fulfills Isaiah’s Prophecy

Text: Matthew 12:15-21

Reflection and Question: Matthew makes an audacious claim when he asserts that Jesus’ behavior fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4. This poetry in Isaiah is the first of four Servant Songs. Ever since they were written, who the servant is has been a controversial matter. Of course, Christians through the ages have joined Matthew in believing that Jesus is God’s servant, and that we become so when we follow Him. Like Jesus, we are to live the paradox of proclaiming justice without shouting or “snapping off the broken reed.” How are you leading justice on to victory?

Prayer: God of all nations, we give You thanks that You put Your Spirit upon Jesus, and that through Him we become Your beloved, on whom Your favor rests. We will not strive or shout this day. But we will work for justice, if it be Your will. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).