This is the audio (8:31, 3.9 MB) of a homily I gave at Grace Anglican Church, Grove City, PA, on March 25, 2024, the Monday of Holy Week. The Scripture text is Isaiah 42:1–9, which was read before I stood up to speak so it’s not on the recording.

An excerpt:

We might think that a leader who brings about justice will be a combative, knocking-heads, taking-no-prisoners kind of ruler. But verses 2 and 3 tell us how the Servant will act. It says he will move methodically, firmly, but gently. Anything worthwhile that is damaged, he will not destroy it but strengthen it. A flame that is almost gone out, he won’t blow it out, but instead revive it. He is strong enough to accomplish justice, and he won’t stop until he makes Justice happen—but there is a wrong and a right way to go about it; he chooses the gentle way. YHWH needs a Servant who is gentle, but strong and persistent/faithful.

Audio and text: ©2024 by Benjamin D. Giffone. Reproduction and distribution are permitted, providing that the author is properly credited and that no fee is charged.