Isaiah 55:1-3
1 Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. 2 Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and delight yourself in abundance. 3 Incline your ear and come to Me. Listen, that you may live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you."
In the book of Genesis chapter 17: 1-4, we learn that God made a covenant with Abram when he was ninety-nine years old, He declared, "I am God Almighty; Walk before Me and be blameless. 2 I will establish My covenant between Me and you and I will multiply you exceedingly. 3 Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him saying, as for Me behold, My covenant is with you, and you will be the father of a multitude of nations." At that time, God changed Abram's name to Abraham and made him a father of many nations as He promised.
The chosen people of God were established through the bloodline of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; when wrestling with an angel, Jacob's name was turned to Israel, as described in Genesis 35:10 "God said to him, your name is Jacob; You shall no longer be called Jacob, But Israel shall be your name." Jacob had 12 sons who represented the 12 tribes of Israel.
What happens to the people and tribes of Israel over the years and centuries is a fascinating story; one that is playing itself out at this very present time. Ultimately, the story of God's people throughout history is relatively messy, when you read about each character and understand how they lived and interacted with each other, you might wonder how could they have been called "God's chosen people"? It is a great comfort to know that God uses flawed people under seemingly foolish circumstances to fulfill His plan.
The blessings God promises to the remnant of Israel are equally true for us. The call to those who are weary and worn is still offered today, to men and women, Jews and Gentiles, young and old. The offer to come and buy wine and milk without money and without cost is just as available today under this time of Grace as it was in the early times of Israel.
Closing Thoughts
Understanding that we are all flawed by the stain of original sin, God remedied that by atoning for our sinfulness with the blood of Jesus Christ. The Messiah of Israel is also the Savior of the world and "whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have ever lasting life." John 3:15
The question is why do we settle for less when God has an abundance of gifts that He longs to give generously to us; He invites us to come to Him so that we may live in His presence and delight ourselves in all that He has to offer; His everlasting Covenant endures forever!
Isaiah 56 6-7
"Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. 7Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have compassion on him."
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