It’s been said that the book of Isaiah could be seen as a microcosm of the entire Bible.  It has 66 chapters like the Bible has 66 books and it covers the basics of the point of the Bible.  In today’s reading we come across passages like Chapter 43 where we find out why God has done what he has done for us.

Isaiah 43: 1b-4a

…Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

² When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.

³ For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
I give Egypt for your ransom,
Cush and Seba in your stead.

⁴ Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you…