Remember the former things of old; For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, “My purpose shall stand and I will fulfill my intention,”…” I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have planned, and I will do it.”
Our Redeemer – the Lord of host is his name – is the Holy One of Israel.
Isaiah 46: 8B – 11, 47: 4
In this Lenten journey, we have read several passages from the prophet Isaiah. Within those readings, many focus on the coming of the Messiah – a great Redeemer. As we enter the 40th day of Lent, we begin to turn our attention to the events of Holy Week, which were prophesied in the Old Testament. God Himself declared His purpose, and He reminds us that what is about to happen is His plan, and He will bring it to pass. Jesus is our Redeemer; He is the Holy One of Israel. The very reason God chose Israel as His people was to bring forth a Savior for all the world. And it is during Holy Week that it is accomplished.
Let us pray with St. Gregory:
My God and my king, my life and my refuge, my hope and my confidence,
Jesus Christ, O God of all, holiness that dwells in the souls of the saints,
consolation for the afflicted and pardon for sinners,
you who know all things before they happen,
send the protective strength of your right hand
and save me from the terror of the night and evil demons,
so that always embracing your awesome memory
and your holy name on the lips of my soul and with the desires of my breath,
I might be saved and protected
along with those who call to you
with all their hearts.
Amen
Prayer 94 A
