A Gold Plated Self

Isaiah 39-41

These chapters record the coming of John the Baptist, the greatness of God and the silliness of idols.  Ancient cultures often made images of wood covered in gold to curry favor.  Today our enlightened culture would laugh at such foolishness.   We have a far greater idol than all the rest. 

Our idol?  Our life.  We worship our life and expend enormous amounts of energy and money making sure we will live as long as possible.   Physical life is the ultimate, preeminent meaning!

Life…physical, biological life is our god.

“All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field.  The grass withers, the flower fades…” 40:6b-7a

BUT…

“Do not fear, for I (God) am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 41:10

Brancusi's Gold Plated Head