“Do not remember the former things,
or consider the things of old.
I am about to do a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:18-19

 
Dear Friends in Christ,
 
I am writing this article for the Messenger full of excitement at the fulfillment of God’s words through the Prophet Isaiah, “I am about to do a new thing.” The New Revised Standard Version translation of the Bible refers to this chapter as Restoration and Protection Promised. Throughout this chapter God, speaking through Isaiah, is repeatedly promising protection for the Israelites.
 
For example, verse 2, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” And again, in verse 4, “Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, I give people in return for you, nations in exchange for your life.”
 
Isaiah also shares God’s promise of Restoration. In verses 24 – 25 we hear this promise, “You have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities. I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.”
 
Almost right smack dab in the middle of this chapter of Restoration and Protection we hear God’s promise “to do a new thing” and to “make a way in the wilderness.” I believe that these words are true for us here at SHUP. At the risk of making a poor rhyme, God’s promises are true and they are for me and you. It’s clear to see that God’s hand is at work doing something new and exciting for this church and this community.
 
As we welcome new staff (YAY!) and look at how we can faithfully reach out to our community, I encourage you to get on board with the “new thing” that God is doing. Please keep our staff and church leaders in prayer and don’t miss out on the awesome opportunities to serve God right here at SHUP!
 
In Christ,
Pastor Ben