Isaiah 35:4-7a

“Say to those who are of a fearful heart, ‘Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance, with terrible recompense. He will come and save you.’” vs. 4

Isaiah had been called to bring the word of the Lord to a frightened nation. Enemies threatened on every side. Assyria had ravaged Israel and carried its people into captivity and now Babylon was a threat to the east. The king of Judah was little more than a puppet ruler and powerful neighbors were demanding tribute. And the citizens were suffering; many were very afraid of the future. And to them Isaiah brought a word of hope, imploring them to be strong and not to fear. He told them that their God was near and would come to save them. In fact the Lord “would come with vengeance, and with terrible recompense.” It’s likely that the people of Judah loved that message–it’s certainly what we like to hear. Deep in our hearts there is a desire that someday God will come and clean house. But that’s not what Isaiah had in mind. Instead he paints a picture of a compassionate God who will bring healing and restoration. “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy.” It’s because God is full of compassion and steadfast love that we can live without fear!

Thought for the Day: What’s it like to have a fearful heart?