and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:3 NIV
One of the core messages of the invitation to come into the Lord’s presence is captured in today’s verse. The call to come is for those who grieve, mourn, and are full of despair. No one with these emotions feel as if they have their act together. They would use words like angry, confused with what is happening, helpless, unworthy, neglected, or bitter.
Nothing in that category would suggest receiving a garment of praise or exchanging them for the oil of joy. BUT God is ready to exchange with those who are broken, contrite, or feel totally unworthy. Someone at church today is experiencing some or all of these emotions. Let grace abound.
Garment of Praise
These are for you, He said with a smile O Sir, I believe that you are mistaken I’ve not worn those for quite a while Not found on the road I’ve been taking For your head, let’s begin with a crown Are you sure that’s the best place to start? Few good thoughts in my mind can be found A crown for my head, but what of my heart? Your wounds need My oil of joy for healing Mourning and despair makes this hard to believe The depth of my loss is all that I am feeling Your words of exchange, I’ll try to receive A new garment of praise for you to wear Sir, you almost make me laugh Do you know how others would stare? Unbecoming for those on my path “Enough” said He, “I do what I say” Come you who are tired, weary and broken My grace exchange for you is open today All shall be given, just as I have spoken
The only hesitation in the invitation to come is on your part. Try as you may to tell God how wrong He is to open the dialogue for you to receive from His goodness. He still stands ready to do business with your heart.
By faith receive from His storeroom of grace for His children. Receive forgiveness. Receive joy. Receive the garment of praise. All these look exceptionally good on you.
Blessings Love y’all