But the Prince of Cambridge was one of over 2000 babies born yesterday, so there are plenty other families rejoicing in their good news.
Other glimpses of Good News come from many other directions, depending on your point of view. Last night's rain was welcomed by many.
The Prophet Isaiah is the first to mention 'Good News' as a distinctive category of messages. 'How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who brings good news,
the good news of peace and salvation,
the news that the God of Israel reigns!The watchmen shout and sing with joy,
for before their very eyes
they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem.Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song,
for the Lord has comforted his people.
He has redeemed Jerusalem.The Lord has demonstrated his holy power
before the eyes of all the nations.
All the ends of the earth will see
the victory of our God.' (Isaiah 52.7-10)
are the feet of the messenger who brings good news,
the good news of peace and salvation,
the news that the God of Israel reigns!The watchmen shout and sing with joy,
for before their very eyes
they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem.Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song,
for the Lord has comforted his people.
He has redeemed Jerusalem.The Lord has demonstrated his holy power
before the eyes of all the nations.
All the ends of the earth will see
the victory of our God.' (Isaiah 52.7-10)
This Good News followed on years of bad news, as the people of Judah and Jerusalem had endured the experience of defeat and exile. But the prophet brings Good News, because the years of exile are to be ended, and the people will return to Jerusalem.
Most of the people I encounter daily are experiencing what looks like exile, in one way or another. Most have little idea that they matter to God, and people are often in broken and distant relationships with the people around them. To know that God has acted to bring exiles home is the Good News we carry. The Good News of relationship with God, and a purpose to live for is something quite startling to be able to share.
In one way or another we can have those beautiful feet that Isaiah speaks about. That is Good News in itself.
Best wishes,
Richard
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