Isaiah 63:3

"I have trodden the wine press alone, and from the peoples no one was with me; I trod them in my anger and trampled them in my wrath; their lifeblood is sprinkled upon my garments, and I have stained all my raiment" (Isaiah 63:3 RSV).

Comment:

This is 'Second Isaiah,' written in the aftermath of the Exile in Babylon, as Hebrews are being called to leave the comfort zones they have created in exile and return to their homeland. These passages (Chapters 40-66) are fervent in calling the people forward, and they are also clear that great challenges lie ahead. It's necessary to stay alert to avoid falling back into old habits and choices. The speaker here is a watchman (see 62:6) who stands guard against the apparently glorious and powerful (63:1) tempters from the realm of the senses with a message of logical appeasement. 'Why are you so worked up?' they ask in effect. And the beginning of the watchman's reply is the passage you quote. Standing spiritual guard is exhausting, and it's messy, and it can be really lonely. It's always tempting to give it up, to just 'chill out,' and let what happens happen. But, as the rest of Chapter 63 and all of 64 make clear, the reward is more than worth the challenge. As we steadfastly maintain the primacy of our spiritual commitment, everything else begins to fall into place as well.

Blessings!

Rev. Ed