Isaiah 52:7 – How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news. (NKJV)

My mom's feet looked awful, and she sadly knew it. Over the years, rheumatism and arthritis crippled her. Her toes were all bent and misshapen, and she was in constant agony, especially when she had to walk. It was heartbreaking to watch her, but there was nothing our family could do to help ease her chronic condition.

On those rare occasions when the pain subsided, she would woefully sigh and say, "I wish the good Lord would give me a new pair of feet."

Years later, when I started to re-read Scripture, I came across today's verse from Isaiah. It made me wonder if my mom's ugly feet were the result of constant bad news during her hard and troubled life. But when I began to meditate on the verse, I suddenly realized why the feet of a good news messenger would be beautiful — he would be taking time to spread the good news from village to village, celebrating and dancing with everyone who heard the news. On the other hand — or foot — a messenger with bad news would be running as fast as he could, tripping over rocks, stirring up the dust, and blistering his feet. He would have no time for celebration, and when he arrived at his destination, the deplorable condition of his feet would convey the bad tidings.

We all want to hear good news. Perhaps it may be about the birth of a new child, or about a new career or a promotion, or about test results or recovery after surgery. Ultimately, the really good news for us will be that future day when all of our trials and tribulations are over, and we can rest at last in the arms of Jesus. His good news supersedes all else, and His feet are the most beautiful of all.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You brought good news into the world, telling us about God's love, His forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. We rejoice in that good news, and seek to let it influence who we are and what we will become. Bless us this day with Your guidance, grace, and good news. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

John Stuart <traqair@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
Send your feedback to the author