What News Are You Bringing?

(Isaiah 52:7-9 HCSB) 7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the herald, who proclaims peace, who brings news of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns! ”  8 The voices of your watchmen — they lift up their voices, shouting for joy together; for every eye will see when the LORD returns to Zion.  9 Be joyful, rejoice together, you ruins of Jerusalem! For the LORD has comforted His people; He has redeemed Jerusalem.

Like most people, I love to hear good reports! People who speak positively are so much easier to be around than negative Nellies and Doubting Dans. Positive people lighten the mood and brighten the day! They can take ugly situations and transform them with their beautiful spirit.

Before contemporary methods of spreading communication, news had to be carried by heralds. (Think Pony Express) In Isaiah’s days, the reports of current events were physically carried and reported. Because most of the communities were protected by walls, the reporters shouted the nature of the news to the watchmen who stood on the walls. The response of the watchmen indicated whether the news was good or bad. As was often the case, the news was negative–another attack, famine in the next county, drought, an outbreak of leprosy–these reports were understandably disheartening. At other times, the news was good–the drought was over, crops were doing well, the harvest would be plentiful–news like that was delightful.

But, the scripture reference for today described a report of great news for Zion! The watchmen were delighted by the news of peace, good things, and a proclamation of salvation. The message was clear, “Your God reigns! The voices of your watchmen — they lift up their voices, shouting for joy together; for every eye will see when the LORD returns to Zion.  9 Be joyful, rejoice together, you ruins of Jerusalem!” Loud exclamations of joy… shouting for joy… eyes focused on the signs of the Lord’s return… Why? “For the LORD has comforted His people; He has redeemed Jerusalem.”  

Back to my original statement. People who report GOOD NEWS are so much easier to be around. Whether speaking with our mouths, publishing on our social media accounts, talking on the phone, or sending texts, we should strive to report the good things of God.

He is good. He is in control. He is able. He is willing. He is love. He is accessible. He is… Well, He is God and He REIGNS! Report that! Text that! Post that to Facebook. Trust me when I tell you, people will be more happy to see you coming when you are known for your positive approach to life. And your feet will never look better…

PRAYER: I commit to speak about the positive things of God’s redemptive plan for mankind. The news is good. Always. Help me Lord to focus on and report those things!