First Lesson: Isaiah 50:4-9a

Theme: The prophet's perilous profession

Exegetical Note
This so-called Third Servant Song of Second Isaiah expresses the author's constant confidence in God despite the anger and abuse that he has had to endure, ostensibly at the hands of his fellow exiled Israelites, to whom his message of faith and hope sounds ridiculous. Yet, the Servant expresses both his determination to convey the message and his certainty of God's sustenance and eventual vindication.

Call to Worship
(based on Psalm 31)
Leader: Let us seek refuge in God!
People: MAY GOD'S RIGHTEOUSNESS DELIVER US!
Leader: May God hear us and rescue us!
People: MAY GOD BE OUR ROCK AND OUR RETREAT!

Collect
Steadfast God, you have always helped your servants to endure anger and abuse, harassment and ha…