Isaiah 55:1–3 (NRSV)

55 Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.2 Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. 3 Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant,my steadfast, sure love for David.

One of my favorite pieces of Scripture. It is a sure sign of prevenient grace. A promise of God being the first mover and ultimate provider.  God does not wait for me to “find” him or much less myself. God refuses to hang around until I  figure it out. God moves into the neighborhood and begins to change my life by changing my desires and loves.

And that invitation is followed by a question that we each wrestle with,”Why do you spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?”

Why do I waste my time with that which has no lasting impact?

Why do I worry?

Why do I work for things that are here today and vanish into thin are quickly?

Why do I put my hope in my own talents and gifts which fall so short of my great needs?

And the psalmist then invites my ears to hear and my heart to turn toward the one who has always been waiting who gives freely and forever exactly what I need as I need it.

Turn gently this morning and you will find open arms waiting to cradle you and not clenched fists waiting to pummel. Turn today and listen for the words of life which will guide your path even through the fog of doubt, disappointment, and despair. Open your heart and know deeply the eternal hope that is yours because of God’s faithfulness.

Lord, I believe…help my unbelief.