The Lord used the prophet to compare Israel, Judah and, finally, the Church of Christ as His vineyard, which, in each generation, has been attacked in different ways, but has withstood it. Hell can never prevail with its gates made to shame the Savior. They will not stand in the way of God's servants (Matthew 16:18). He leads the fight to the end, with all the holiness that befits His house. We must always act correctly!

         The Spirit of prophecy made Isaiah compose the so-called Song of My Beloved, about the Lord's vineyard. There is much to be said or sung about the Church made up of those who have loved it - and will love it - to the end. For it, many didn't mind being imprisoned, tortured and killed, because they knew they were being used, promoting salvation for humanity (Matthew 5.10-12). Anyone who stands against God's plan is a fool, either by attacking Him or by defiling His holiness.

         Imagine if God didn't use His ability to guard His vineyard? Those who allow themselves to be dominated by the evil one and dishonor it will answer for the harm done to it while defending their private interests. Those who practiced the sins of the flesh, thinking themselves unaccountable, and harmed the brothers who were doing the work with dedication and honor, will be at Christ's judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:10).

            Those who exercise power over the people and persecute God's vineyard, claiming to be for their own safety, arresting the faithful soldiers of the cross of Christ, will show the real motives for their actions. Taking refuge where the Lord has determined in the hour of tribulation is the only way to escape punishment in the lake of fire and brimstone (Psalm 46.1; Luke 13.23-28). There's still time to make amends!

          The Church of Christ is a vineyard planted on a fertile hill. The soil has been prepared to receive the vines that will produce grapes. The land needs to have a slope that is not too steep. If the vine is planted on a flat site, rainwater will soak the plant, and that's bad. The soil must have a pH between 5 and 6, be deep and well-drained. We can compare this preparation of the soil with our own in the spiritual aspect, in order to be the true vineyard of the Savior.

         The song of the vineyard of the Most High is composed of pleasant poetry, even in the part that speaks of the struggle of the brothers against sin, which surrounds them so closely. This battle will never end, because the devil, after tempting us, withdraws until the opportune moment to return with his wiles (Luke 4.13). That's why we must watch and pray, otherwise we will give in to iniquity. The Lord's Church has been placed on the best soil, so it is unacceptable for its members to make excuses, saying that they couldn't stand it and fell into sin. God takes care of everything!

        Individually, we are Jesus' vineyard, but if we commit sin, we will not be spared at His judgment seat. We must be holy; after all, He has given us the power to be made His children (John 1.12). To those who have fallen, the command is: repent so as not to be lost eternally. The message to the faithful will be: Come, you blessed of My Father (Matthew 25.31- 40).

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares