40 Days of Prayer: Freely Forgiven, Isaiah 55:6-7, Week 6, Day 1

Dreaming is interesting. In some dreams, we possess gifts we don’t actually have, like powers that allow us to fly, great wealth, or fame. In other dreams, the gifts we take for granted are taken away.

We’ve all had a dream where something was chasing us while we were unable to run away. Or what about the dreams where we want to warn someone or cry out for help, but our voice doesn’t seem to work?

Personally, these are the dreams that affect me the most. Unable to flee from the evil that is pursuing me, I feel powerless. When I call for help and no one hears my call, I feel hopeless and fearful. That is what makes this passage so beautiful.

Forgiveness, while a truly amazing gift, is not the only gift present in the passage. It is not even the first gift given to us. God, in His provisional grace, gives us the ability to seek and call Him. Who are we that we can seek the eternal Creator and Judge and find Him? Even more, who are we that He listens when we call? Why should a holy God hear the calls of those who act as His enemy?

According to His character, His gifts continue to come. God gives an invitation for the wicked to turn from sin and receive compassion, not justice. Wow! The all-knowing and all-powerful Judge invites the guilty to receive a pardon.

Reflection Prayer

Father, we thank You that You may be found by those who seek You. Though there are many who are lost, that are hopeless, fearful, and powerless, You can still be found by those who seek You. We thank You that You hear us when we call. We give You glory and praise! Amen.

By Willie Johnson