July 22, 2016 – Isaiah 44:6-7

Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: “I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god. Who is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and set it before me, since I appointed an ancient people. Let them declare what is to come, and what will happen. Isaiah 44:6-7Many years ago, as a teacher, I wondered how I could lead my class, and yet be last to guide the stragglers to our destination. This is our God, the first and the last.When Jesus called the disciples, He asked them to follow Him.  He is the leader.  And He is our Shepherd, who catches the stragglers, who fall behind.  He is the Lamb, the pure sacrifice for our sins.  We follow Him, and as He was raised from the dead, and because of His sacrifice, we will be raised from the dead.What is the First and the Last? “Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”  Revelation 22:12-13Fear not, God is consistent, He is forever, He is fervently Holy.  He is true and Jesus is Truth.  No other god ever devised by man can ever love and lead us forever into an eternity of holiness.  There is no other choice for living in this world, except to follow Jesus, our Alpha and Omega.Fear not, nor be afraid; have I not told you from of old and declared it? And you are my witnesses! Is there a God besides me? There is no Rock; I know not any.” Isaiah 44:8