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Opinion
Take time to read the Servant Songs in Isaiah
Friday, January 12, 2024
In my denomination’s tradition, our gospel lessons will focus upon Mark. The Gospel of Mark differs from other gospels in that there is no birth narrative. In Matthew we have the story of Jesus’ conception and birth from Joseph’s viewpoint. In the Gospel of Luke we have the nativity story from Mary’s point of view. The Gospel of John goes way, way back with the birth narrative, telling us that Jesus is the eternal Word of God. And Mark? Mark jumps right in with the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
One of the first stories we encounter in Mark is the baptism of Jesus. In Mark’s account, there is no indication that John knows who Jesus is when Jesus wades into the Jordan River to be baptized. Unlike other gospels, when God speaks during Jesus’ baptism, it is only Jesus who hears God’s voice. Jesus’ baptism is thus a private affair. No one but Jesus knows its significance as God proclaims: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” The first part of this quote comes from Psalm 2 and is about the messiah. The second half from Isaiah 42. What is special about Isaiah 42 is that it begins a section of scripture that contains four Servants Songs, which describe the one who suffers on the behalf of others. (42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-9; 52:13-53:12)
For Mark’s readers who knew their scripture well, by the 11th verse of the first chapter, Mark is already giving them a hint as to who Jesus is. They don’t have to read to the middle or the end of the gospel to figure it out. Mark tells them that Jesus is the long awaited Anointed One and as God’s servant he will suffer on behalf of humanity.
During the short days of January, take the time to read the Servant Songs in Isaiah. Reflect on their words. Give thanks to God for sending us his Son, who sacrificed himself in order to save us.
“Here is my servant! I have made him strong. He is my chosen one; I am pleased with him. I have given him my Spirit, and he will bring justice to the nations.” Isaiah 42:1
The Rev. Karen Dumey is the pastor of Hunter Memorial First Presbyterian Church in Sikeston.