Bible Society of South Africa

Epiphany: Baptism of the Lord

First reading

God Promises to Rescue his People

1Israel, the LORD who created you says,

“Do not be afraid — I will save you.

I have called you by name — you are mine.

2When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you;

your troubles will not overwhelm you.

When you pass through fire, you will not be burnt;

the hard trials that come will not hurt you.

3For I am the LORD your God,

the holy God of Israel, who saves you.

I will give up Egypt to set you free;

I will give up Ethiopia and Seba.

4I will give up whole nations to save your life,

because you are precious to me

and because I love you and give you honour.

5Do not be afraid — I am with you!

“From the distant east and the farthest west,

I will bring your people home.

6I will tell the north to let them go

and the south not to hold them back.

Let my people return from distant lands,

from every part of the world.

7They are my own people,

and I created them to bring me glory.”

Isaiah 43:1-7GNBOpen in Bible reader
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