This summer, beginning Sunday, July 5, journey together with folks across the synod through the book of Isaiah—a sweeping landscape of warning and promise, exile and homecoming, lament and hope. Along the way, you’ll hear the voices of pastors and lay leaders from across the North Carolina Synod, each sharing reflections on a portion of Isaiah.
At the top of each reading, be sure to note the assigned Scripture passage. Each writer chose to reflect either on their complete assigned passage or only on a section. Consider reading the entire assigned passage so that, together over these 19 days, we’ll journey through the whole book of Isaiah.
You will begin by hearing from biblical scholar Dr. Anna Marsh, who offers an introduction to Isaiah that provides historical context and thoughtful questions to enrich your reading.
As we travel this wilderness road together, may we discover anew the God who still prepares a way where there seems to be no way.
Blessings on your journey!
This Summer Bible Reading Plan is brought to you by the NC Synod's Engage the Bible Task Group—a Book of Faith ministry. This journey through Isaiah is the eleventh Bible reading plan. Thank you for engaging in the Bible together! See the previous compilations at www.nclutheran.org/engage-the-bible.
To Consider
In what ways have you encountered the Old Testament book of Isaiah before? Only as readings in worship? Or, not at all?
What is your plan for engagement this summer? Will you take this journey alone? Maybe as a household? Or, with friends in your congregation or community?
Prayer
Praise and thanks to you, holy God, for by your Word, you made all things: you spoke light into darkness, called forth beautfy from chaos, and brought life into being. For your Word of life, O God, we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you called your people Israel to tell of your wonderful gifts: freedom from captivity, water on the desert journey, a pathway home from exile, wisdom for life with you. For your Word of life, O God, we give you thanks and praise.
Faithful to your Word, O God, draw near to all who call on you; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Amen.
(adapted from Thanksgiving for the Word, ELW p.220)