Choose Life

 October 31, 2021

They were dangerous times. Assyria was the superpower of the age, and were poised to sweep down like a vulture upon a weak and divided Israel. The Assyrians were known for their exceptional cruelty in an age when cruelty was the norm. They were dangerous times indeed; in such times people search for answers, and there were then as now, no shortage of those ready to supply them, true or not. Enter Isaiah.

“When they say to you, “Seek those who are mediums and wizards, who whisper and mutter,” should not a people seek their God? Should they seek the dead on behalf of the living? To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” —Isaiah 8:19-20 

I used to think Isaiah was speaking only of occult practices, but lately my understanding has expanded. In our own dangerous times, it’s not primarily mediums and wizards who whisper and mutter into our ears. It’s politicians, experts, media talking heads, even friends and family members. Everyone has a take on what’s wrong and how to fix it, and most of us are more than ready to listen to their whisperings. God tells us not to do it.

“To the law and testimony,” Isaiah thunders. “Why are you seeking the dead on behalf of the living?” Life isn’t to be found on Fox or CNN. It’s only found in Jesus, the One who fulfilled the Law, and the One about whom the Scriptures testify (John 5:39). 

There are only two choices—Death and Life. The world is filled with those who would drag us towards death and it’s companions despair, fear, confusion, and manipulation. There are those who call evil good and good evil; others who constantly peddle fear instead of faith; still others who sow confusion in order to manipulate and control. Only Jesus Christ offers life, full and abundant. In Deuteronomy 30:19, we are offered a choice: “I set before you this day life and death; choose life.” How do we do that? By choosing Jesus. St. Paul assures us that when we do, “Everyone who calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13). 

Don’t listen to the talking heads. They speak death. Listen to the One who is Head of his body, the Church, who offers life to anyone who is willing to repent and believe.