Its strange how we [at least me] can so often pass over parts of the Bible and miss the striking truth it contains. I have often read and heard quoted Isaiah 57:15 –
“The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: “I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble.”
The truth contained here is striking to say the least – and I had not seen it till recently. The High, Holy, Creator God – who, as another scripture reminds us, lives “In light so brilliant that no human can approach him” [1 Timothy 6:16] – lifts in to his presence, chooses to spend his time, shares his secrets, and enjoys the company of “those whose spirits are contrite and humble”. We might have expected him to prefer the company of theologians, high-ranking clergy, the rich, powerful and influential people of our world – but this is clearly not the case. [1]
God, apparently, is not impressed by the things that so often impress us! In fact when we come to the place where we think we have something impressive to ingratiate us to God – he obviously thinks otherwise –
“Thus says the Lord: “Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist, ”Says the Lord.“ But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word.“
Isaiah 66:1-2
Saint Bonaventure [1221 – 1274] reportedly said said that an uneducated washer woman could, without even knowing it, be much close to God than a Doctor in Theology such as himself. Who am I to disagree!
[1] That is not to say any of the foregoing cannot be contrite and humble.
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