Isaiah 1:8 The Daughter of Zion is left like a shelter in a vineyard, like a hut in a field of melons, like a city under siege. [New International translation.]
Summary
The prophet Isaiah was called to prophesy to the Southern Kingdom of Judah, [i.e., the daughters of Zion] about GOD's judgment of the people for their rebellion and sin against God and about God's future plan for salvation through the Messiah, JESUS CHRIST. In Isaiah 1:8, the "Daughter of Zion" refers to the city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the city of David, was built on a hill called Zion and is given a "feminine" reference—"daughter," probably because of its great "beauty." There were numerous "field of melons" planted around the city. Melons (and cucumbers) were in great demand in this hot region because of their cooling properties. To protect the harvest, a shelter was often erected in the field so that a watchman could guard the field from birds, animals, thieves or anything else that might damage, steal or destroy the crop. However, the prophet states the booth or shelter has been "left" or abandoned because the city of Jerusalem is "under siege" or surrounded. This is because the city fields are surrounded by the enemy. This description of abandoned fields exemplifies the hopelessness and helplessness of the situation that Jerusalem will soon find herself because of the people's sinful ways. Despite Isaiah's prophetic forewarning from GOD and fervent plea that the people "Heed the word of the LORD" and "listen," the Israelites refused. The people chose to continue down a path of self-destruction that eventually led to Babylonian captivity.
Watermelon Facts
Although most people classify watermelon as mainly a fruit because of it natural sweetness, watermelon is actually both a fruit and a vegetable. Watermelon is a member of the "gourd" family of plants, which include cucumbers, squash and pumpkin. Melons are a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 and Potassium. According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board:
- Vitamin A found in watermelon is important for optimal eye health and boosts immunity by enhancing the infection-fighting actions of white blood cells called lymphocytes.
- Vitamin B6 found in watermelon helps the immune system produce antibodies. Antibodies are needed to fight many diseases. Vitamin B6 helps maintain normal nerve function and form red blood cells. The body uses it to help break down proteins. The more protein you eat, the more vitamin B6 you need.
- Vitamin C in watermelon can help to bolster the immune system's defenses against infections and viruses and can protect a body from harmful free radicals that can accelerate aging and conditions such as cataracts.
- Potassium: A two-cup serving of watermelon is also a source of potassium, a mineral necessary for water balance and found inside of every cell. People with low potassium levels can experience muscle cramps
See. www.watermelon.org
Watermelon is high in water content (often about 90%) and low in calories. Because it is rich in electrolytes and water, it is the great food source on hot days. According to www.Buzzle.com, a typical melon contains: 1 mg of sodium, 0.5 mg of copper, 100 mg of magnesium, 0.6 mg of manganese, 200 mg of phosphorus, 195 mg of potassium and 17 mcg of selenium.
Watermelons should always be washed with soap and water before cutting.
Anyone who is diabetic or has a serious health problem should always consult their own personal physician about the benefits or health consequences of eating any particular food, as well as recommendations regarding the amounts to eat.
Choices
GOD does not force us to be healthy. Nor does GOD force us to eat unhealthy foods. It is our choice.
We are blessed to live in a country where good food and healthy food are generally abundant and available. We also live in a country where unhealthy food is also generally available and abundant as well. It is our choice to make. We can allow ourselves to be taken captive by "fast food restaurants," "donut shops" and "sugary drinks and junk food machines," or we can enjoy the blessing of good food and good health.
Wednesday is a day when the "watchmen/watchwomen" "stay put." It is a day to "heed" the WORD of the LORD. It is a day of fellowship, reflection and stewardship—when we (individually and collectively) make ourselves accountable to GOD physically and spiritually. It is also day to enjoy GOD's blessings. Why do otherwise?
Be steadfast. Be vigilant. And Be Blessed!
