The Invitation

This morning as we approach the Christmas season. Let us choose to remember why we celebrate. Choosing to focus upon the true reason for it all- Jesus Christ.

During this time of year are calendars bustle over with Christmas parties, church services, and other responsibilities. At this time we are given many invitations- receiving so many at times that we often become stressed and overwhelmed. Wishing that we could fast forward it all.

This morning the prophet Isaiah under the inspiration of God offers to us another invitation. An invitation that will change our lives.

Turn with me in your Bibles to Isaiah 55. This morning I want to walk you through this passage highlighting many special points to this wonderful invitation. As we walk through this passage, you may discover a verse that grips you and you decide to stay there for awhile that is okay. This morning I just want to be a Biblical tour guide for you; so with that in mind as you turn keep your Bibles open throughout the entire message.

Verses 1-2 Isaiah opens the passage with several questions, First, Is anyone thirsty? Thirst is a powerful force. When we were in New York, and the heat wave was upon us, many times my thoughts were not about what I would eat, but where could I get something to drink? Where could I quench my thirst?

Isaiah speaks here not just about liquid refreshment but about spiritual refreshment. About a thirsting for something more. A famous philosopher once wrote that inside of each of is a cross shaped hole, a missing piece so to speak. We spend our entire lives trying to fill it, but only one piece will fit and that is God.

Are you thirsty? Are you in a search for something more?

A second question Isaiah asks is: Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? And further why pay for food that does you no good?

Many in their search for meaning in their search to fill that missing piece throw themselves into many different directions all trying to find meaning and purpose. And unless that search ends with God it is all in vain.

Once getting our attention Isaiah draws us in even further by commanding us to listen, and he can tell us where to get food for the soul. How to find that missing piece.

Listen to verses 3-5

God through Isaiah invites us to grasp Life, hope, direction, and purpose.