May 15 | Isaiah 47:8-15

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DAILY READING

Isaiah 47:8-15

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REFLECTION

The Power of the Flame

By Jennifer Jerrome

The Books of Isaiah and Revelation share many of the same themes, including the Fall of Babylon. When you think of Babylon what comes to mind?

Selfish, corrupt, and arrogant are often used to describe the ancient empire. It became notorious for all the wrong reasons. The Babylonians were not living a godly life. Instead, they put their faith in astrology, sorcery, and witchcraft. The city served and continues to serve as an example of what NOT to do.

Isaiah tells his audience that Babylon is living with a false sense of confidence. He prays the people will see the error of their ways and turn to the one who truly saves – the Lord Almighty.

I was especially drawn to the latter part of verse 14, “These are not coals for warmth; this is not a fire to sit by.”

In other words, we’re not out here singing songs by a campfire. We’re not roasting marshmallows. This is serious business. This fire will consume you.

The imagery of fire is used countless times throughout the Bible. It’s no coincidence the word fire appears more in Isaiah and Revelation than any other books. Looking back at verse 14, I was curious to know more about the burning of stubble. What did this refer to?

Stubble burning is setting fire to what’s left in the field after the harvest. It was/is often used to clear land for the next planting season. While this method is quick and cheap, it’s not without risks. Air pollution, soil degradation, and safety issues create real dangers which are why many countries have outlawed its practice.

So how does this relate to the week’s focus on defeating evil? I started to wonder, are we trying to take the easy way out of sin? Are we looking for a quick and cheap method or are we willing to put in the work it takes to conquer evil and live a morally and spiritually clean life? Are we willing to give up the easy arrogance and selfishness that will bring defeat and instead live a life that glorifies God? If Babylonians are an example of what NOT to do? Are we as Christians providing a positive example?

I think it’s important to keep in mind that just as a fire can have disastrous effects, it can also be a source of renewal. According to Google: “In the Bible, fire acts as a powerful symbol of divine renewal, representing God's holy presence, purifying power, and refining work. It consumes the old, purges impurity, and prepares the way for new life, faith, and transformation. It symbolizes a shift from judgment to restoration, bringing warmth and zeal rather than just destruction.”

Earlier in Isaiah (43:2-3), he writes, “When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

How do we not let the fire consume us like Isaiah warns Babylon? We let it renew us. How do we set an example of a life well lived? We turn to Him and say, Come, Lord Jesus.

PRAYER

Father,

Thank you for providing what we need for the renewal of body, mind, and spirit. You Lord are the answer and nothing else. May we turn to you amid the flames. Instead of a quick and easy fix that will surely consume us, may we choose You and set an example for all of what awaits us when evil is finally defeated. Amen

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JENNIFER JERROME

I have known I was a child of God from the beginning. I was baptized and raised in the Catholic church and began attending UALC about 18 years ago when my husband I were searching for a place to worship and serve as a family. UALC has helped shape our faith over the years. We have been through several seasons of life and the constant has been our faith and family.