# Isaiah 50:4‑5 and the Call to Move Forward
*2015-02-22*

> Bill reflects on Isaiah 50:4‑5 during the fifth week of Lent, sharing a personal loss and urging listeners to keep pressing forward in prayer and obedience.

## A Personal Loss

Good morning. This is Bill Young, welcome to Prayer and Lent. Before we begin, I have sad news: the man who helped me with the community homebound ministry in Eugene passed away on Saturday. He is now with his beloved wife, whom he had been married to for over fifty years. I will miss him deeply and thank him for the books he lent me and for his faithful service.

## Scripture Reading: Isaiah 50:4‑5

Let us hear today’s passage from Isaiah 50:4‑5:

“The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning He awakens my ear, that I may listen like those who are taught. The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious; I turned not backward.”

## Reflection on the Prophet’s Faithfulness

Isaiah beautifully describes the intimacy of a prophet who trusts God’s daily guidance. The image of God awakening the prophet’s ear reminds us that God continually calls us to listen. This intimate relationship gives the prophet confidence and freedom to stand for what is right, no matter the obstacles.

## Living the Lenten Call

When God is truly present in our souls, nothing can stop us from fulfilling His will. Purification and enlightenment are real Lenten realities. May we turn to God each day, especially during Holy Week, and remain consistent in prayer, drawing confidence from His presence.

*Even in loss, we are called to keep moving forward, trusting that God awakens our ears each morning to hear and obey.*