Isaiah 11:10 In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his place of rest will be glorious.

This is a very interesting verse. In the first place you have the very mixed metaphor of a root being a banner, but Isaiah is just being consistent with having called the Messiah a shoot and a branch in verse 1. The thing about a banner or flag is that it is raised up, and that is consistent with what Jesus said in John 12:32. “But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.” The Japanese translates this verse as “The nations will seek Him,” rather than “rally to Him,” which fits such passages as Isaiah 55:6 (“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near”) and Jeremiah 29:13 (“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart”). The last part of the verse is also interesting because it says “the place of His rest.” Why rest? The fairly extensive discussion of the Lord’s rest in Hebrews 3 and 4 comes to mind. It is said to be reserved for those who are obedient because of their faith. When we come to Him we achieve rest that can be had no other way. Much if not most of the world is exhausted, worn out with sin and the busyness of life. God promises rest that is glorious!

Every year at Christmas I get worn out because of the packed schedule, so this is a good reminder. Just yesterday the Lord had to draw me back to why I endure it all, through the song, “Where’s the Line to See Jesus.” My activities of the season are to enable people to see Him, rather than just the commercial fluff. This year I’m in charge of four different “carol sings” at different venues, as well as two Christmas parties and a Christmas Eve candle light service, on top of our regular Sunday services, all in the space of 10 days. It makes me want to run away! If I fail to keep my focus on “the Reason for the Season,” I’ll collapse. This is a time certainly to raise up Christ so that He may draw many to Himself, and I am not to draw back.

Father, thank You for this training in resting, relaxing, and rejoicing, even in the middle of busyness. It is as I have said many times, it isn’t when our bodies get busy but when our hearts get busy that we are in trouble. Help me wait expectantly on You so that You may renew my strength, even as You promised. (Isaiah 40:31) May I consistently lift up Christ, for the salvation of many and for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!