Room to spare for mercy and kindness
John Povey
December 28, 2025
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Isaiah 63: 7-9 (NIVUK)
7
I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord,
the deeds for which he is to be praised,
according to all the Lord has done for us –
yes, the many good things
he has done for Israel,
according to his compassion and many kindnesses.8
He said, ‘Surely they are my people,
children who will be true to me’;
and so he became their Saviour.9
In all their distress he too was distressed,
and the angel of his presence saved them.
In his love and mercy he redeemed them;
he lifted them up and carried them
all the days of old.
Today’s little three-verse text overflows with expressions used in the Hebrew Bible to describe and extol the Lord. It is a compendium of divinely descriptive words and phrases, “kindnesses and compassion and mercy and love” for God our Saviour and Redeemer. What better way to look forward to another year with God than with such an abundance of mercy!
As Isaiah looks back, he realises that there has always been one thing that saves God’s people. It is no less than the presence of Almighty God in their midst.
There is a tender image here — a father lifting up a child and carrying that child on a long journey. This picture of God picking us up and gently carrying us will evoke many childhood memories of being tired or sad or hurt, and Daddy bending down to scoop us up in his strong arms and carrying us. Jesus, our Saviour, took little children in his arms and blessed them.
Today’s lovely little snippet of the story of salvation is set in a difficult context, for Isaiah’s generation was under constant threat of persecution. Christmas too happened in a difficult context. To celebrate truly what God did in that tiny baby, it helps if we see the dangers into which he came. God’s wonderful deeds are all the more glorious when we remember how complex his salvation is.
The Church’s mission must reflect God’s mercy in today’s world, still fraught with dangers. You are the tangible presence of Christ at the table, and there is room and to spare for all.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Your mercies are new every morning and Your promises remain from one generation to another. Thank You for showing what it means to be loved by You. Thank You for seeking me and speaking to me. You are never far away, and You hear me when I call out to You. Thank You for showing me unfailing love and kindness. What a life-changing experience it is to be known by You! In Jesus' name, Amen.
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