Isaiah 43:18-21

The LORD says: "Look, I am doing something new, even now it is emerging, do you not see it? Yes, I am making a way in the desert and my people will sing my praises."

The prophet is looking forward to the conquest of Babylon by the Persians and the release of the Judeans held captive there, so that they can return home. This is the "new thing" that the LORD is doing. Making a way through the desert for the exiles to return to Judah should remind us of the Israelites being led through the wilderness from Egypt to the promised land. God is once again leading the chosen people and renewing the covenant with them. So, how can the people not sing God's praises?

What would it mean for us to trust that God is leading those with faith through the desert of our times to a time and place of greater promise? If we had this sense of God's presence, even in the midst of our difficulties, might we be filled with rejoicing?

Grace and peace...Bob