Daily Bible Reading – April 2020 God’s Life-Giving Word Of HopeShembull

April 3 Introduction Isaiah reminds the people of the story of their Israelite ancestors. Around one thousand years earlier, the family of Jacob had gone to live in Egypt (Genesis 46:1-4). When the people became slaves, God liberated them (Exodus 1—15). In this passage, God commands the people to leave Babylonia, the land of their oppressors, just as God commanded their ancestors to leave Egypt. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 52:12b The LORD your God will lead you and protect you on every side. Today’s Reading Isaiah 52:1-12 Reflect Verse 12 describes the new exodus from Babylonia as one that will be slow and orderly, not like the first exodus from Egypt, which was done in a hurry. How do past experiences inform your fears? Do they provide you with a sense of confidence and hope in the future? Pray Liberating God, you empower your people to release fears rooted in the past and encourage them with hope for a peaceful future. Help us grasp your vision for peace and justice this day and every day, that all people may be liberated from fear and oppression. Amen. Prayer Concern Those enslaved by fear Tomorrow’s Reading Isaiah 52:13—53:12: The LORD’s servant will suffer and die as a sacrifice to bring forgiveness.