Gardening the Soul: Part 2

An Invitation from God: Isaiah 55

Possibly the most stunning aspect of the feast described by Isaiah is that I am not ushered to a distant corner of the banquet hall but am graciously invited to commune at the head table. As I carefully re-read the invitation, I notice these words: "listen to me. . . come to me. . . hear me.” The invitation to come to the living waters is also an invitation to commune with the Host of the party. As J.I. Packer reminds us, "God sends His word to us in the character of both information and invitation. It comes to woo us as well as to instruct us."

Thus, whenever I come to God's word, I am not coming to some dated, dusty book. I find the life-nourishing words of the living God speaking to me. A.W. Tozer explains:

A loving Personality dominates the Bible, walking among the trees of the garden and breathing fragrance over every scene. Always a living Person is present, speaking, pleading, loving, working, and manifesting Himself whenever and wherever His people have the receptivity to receive the manifestation.

I recently visited a Christian college classroom that was studying the gospels. After some small group sharing, the professor concluded with a lecture. But he never opened his Bible. He never quoted the Bible. He cited a few Biblical references but spent most of his time reading quotes from other sources. Though there is a critical role for Christian books (I hope someone reads my books!), these books cannot be a substitute for teaching students how to meet with God through his word.

Thomas a Kempis understood the need to hear God’s voice. He prayed: "Often I am wearied by all I read and hear. In you is all that I desire and long for. Therefore let all teachers keep silent, and let all creation be still before You; [may] You, O Lord, speak alone." Too often, I depend on others—friends or preachers or books or radio—to water my garden. I must develop the ability to draw water for myself, drinking deeply from God’s well.

Is there an emptiness in your busyness? Do you frequently experience an aching loneliness even though your days are filled with stimulating people and meaningful work? Then shut this book. Find a quiet place. Take your Bible and a notebook—read, listen, write, ask, give thanks. Ask God to pour his living water into your parched soul.