The Passion/Palm narratives always remind us of the Suffering Servant. Our text today gives a portrait of the ultimate Servant, one who is willing to give of himself without reserve for the cause of the kingdom. Our text today shows us the image of the Messiah who is called and committed to total service because he knows that whatever the present circumstances God will bring him through.

This servanthood is viewed from the perspective of one on a mission from God -- sent from God to be the guide for people who have gone astray. Throughout the history of the people of Israel God comes again and again to offer reconciliation and redemption. The image of the suffering servant becomes an important symbol of God taking away the reproach of a people and bearing within Godself the burden of their …