Although it has been believed that the book of Isaiah could have more than one author, I choose to see Isaiah as author. As I read page after page of my assignment, it was clear to me that God's people had turned away from following him and had turned also from the responsibility of being one of God's chosen. The most frightening behavior came in the form of being non repentant. After all, these were his children displaying despicable behavior. How that saddened the Lord which could not be more apparent by the words spoken in these chapters. Such a mix of emotions. The Lord was very disappointed in the people who would come to temple, act pious and then ask where their reward was for acting like this. The people were blasted with Isaiah's reply. They were told their actions were impure, and not for God but for themselves. "Do you really think this will please the Lord?" I get the feeling that Isaiah felt such a strong pull to get these people on the right track that he may have seemed harsh and judgmental to them. Isaiah let them know that this is not what the Lord wanted by telling him what he did want. Be kind to each other. Stand up for those who have no advocates. Share your food and shelter with those in need. God was also described as a God who could forgive and distribute grace to them but they must repent. It was noted that it was their sins that cut them off from God.

As I read on, so many life parallels were made. God was disappointed with his children just as we are with ours at times. And the story of the people's so called sacrifices plainly not sacrifices at all, made me stop and reflect. Have I ever done something for the wrong reason? For self gain thinking I could fool the Lord. Isaiah is a book rich in warning, learning from past mistakes and following the Lord and taking delight in his generous Grace he has daily for us.