by Jordy van Gaalen

Chosen, Redeemed, Loved

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
    I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
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;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
    Cush and Seba in your stead.
Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
    and because I love you,
I will give people in exchange for you,
    nations in exchange for your life.
Do not be afraid, for I am with you;
    I will bring your children from the east
    and gather you from the west.”
Isaiah 43:1-5 NIV

I find myself revisiting these verses often. It reminds me of a few truths of God and sets my feet back on solid footing. They fill me with a sense of purpose and identity. I reflect on who God is and who I am in Christ.

Interspersed in this section of Isaiah is the repeated command to not be afraid. In the midst of the trials and struggles, God is present. He is forever with us, walking alongside us, and guiding us through the uncharted waters. When we pass through rivers and when we walk through fire, we have no need to fear. God, our Savior, is mighty. Through Jesus’ saving work, we are now redeemed. We have no need to fear, because the Lord is with us.

In these verses, God reminds the Israelites of who He is and what He has done. He has rescued them and He has fought their battles. He performed miracles and guided them through daunting trials. God is the same God today as He was then. God is our Savior and Lord, the Holy One, the King of Kings. 

And He chose us. He loves us. He redeems us. He calls us each by name. We are valuable in His eyes. We are precious and honored. He loves each one of us. We are His children, summoned by name.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado