Isaiah's prophesies are addressed to God's people exiled in Babylon. A vision of hope opens with the words of comfort: "Your sin has been paid for! Your hard service has been completed!" A voice calls to prepare the way for the LORD, making a highway in the desert. All mankind will see the glory of the LORD when he comes to redeem and rule them. All people or nations are frail or temporal like grass, but the word of God endures forever. This prophecy was partially fulfilled when the exiles returned to Jerusalem, but it was completely fulfilled when King Jesus came to the world to liberate us from the slavery to sin. On that day, his people (Zion) will shout on a high mountain, "Behold your God!" Our God comes to rule with a mighty arm and to take care of his sheep like a shepherd.

Our God is the almighty Creator who reigns over all creation, all people, and history. Before him all nations are as nothing, all other gods are worthless idols. He alone is self-sufficient, all-powerful, all-knowing, all-wise, incomparable, everlasting, and sovereign. Those who know, trust, and look up at him don't despair or give up but find hope in him. When we put hope in God, we experience God's love and renew our strength like soaring eagles.


Application: Lord, thank you for the true comfort through the forgiveness of my sins in Jesus. Help me prepare the way for the Lord through repentance and put my hope in you.
One Word: Behold your God!