This prophecy found in the Book of Isaiah is distinctive and remarkable as it does not just foretell of Jesus, the coming Son of God, but also speaks of the Holy Spirit!

Isaiah 11:1-5 (MSG)
A green Shoot will sprout from Jesse’s stump, from his roots a budding Branch. The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. Fear-of-God will be all his joy and delight. He won’t judge by appearances, won’t decide on the basis of hearsay. He’ll judge the needy by what is right, render decisions on earth’s poor with justice. His words will bring everyone to awed attention. A mere breath from his lips will topple the wicked. Each morning he’ll pull on sturdy work clothes and boots, and build righteousness and faithfulness in the land.

500 years before the birth of Christ, Isaiah told of a coming Messiah who would not judge by appearances, who will render right decisions and bring justice to the precious folks experiencing poverty. The world was longing for His coming then, and if I may say, our world is longing for His Return right now. I love the final verse, 5. “Each morning he’ll pull on sturdy work clothes and boots, and build righteousness and faithfulness in the land!”

What can you and I do to join Him in this building of righteousness and faithfulness in our land? Do you have your work boots pulled up?

Rev. Andy Bales

President/CEO of Union Rescue Mission