The Great Gift Exchange

“He has sent me to comfort all those who are sad. He has sent me to the sorrowing people of Jerusalem. I will give them a crown to replace their ashes. I will give them the oil of gladness to replace their sorrow. I will give them clothes of praise to replace their spirit of sadness. Then, they will be called Trees of Goodness. They will be like trees planted by the Lord and will show His greatness.” Isaiah 61.3 ICB

The Lord wrote this messianic promise (a promise of Jesus’ coming) to console His people. He shared vivid imagery about grieving in contrast to joy. Traditionally, the mourners would sit in ashes as they wept over the death of someone or something. The Lord acknowledged their condition and vowed a great exchange to turn their sadness into jubilation. The crown, oil, and clothes were worn by those preparing for a celebration (1). Then, God’s people would be called “Trees of Goodness.” Metaphorically, their mindset changed from downhearted to fruitful, strong trees established for themselves and others needing shade and shelter.    

Where We Live

(I will not be glib about loss or grief. Both of my parents have transitioned, and I recently lost another loved one. I think about them daily. Secondly, I am experiencing a major life shift, which I am still navigating. I’m familiar with sorrow and change. I found this scripture helpful and wanted to share it with you.)

When the death of a dream, a loved one, or an opportunity snatches the breath from us, we sometimes struggle to regain stable footing in life. This messianic promise God gave to His sons and daughters many centuries ago is still relevant today.  However, it is even more exciting because after Jesus came, lived as our role model, died, and was resurrected by the Holy Spirit, He gave us a powerful guarantee. Jesus said God, the Holy Spirit, and He would come to live in us (John14.15-23). Grab ahold of that…the Trinity lives in us right now! We can hand them our pains, disappointments, losses, and failures. In exchange, we receive divine daily support in every situation. It’s our covenant relationship!

When hard times knock us to our knees, the Spirit of God lifts us, wipes our tears, listens, and strengthens our walk. The transition from bereavement to better takes time. God has us every step of the way. When we are on the other side of grief, we will be able to share our success story and provide support for another person.

Lean into His love.

He won’t leave.

I hope you can find hope in this exhortation.

1. Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): Old Testament. 2004.