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The book of Isaiah opens to a world in rebellion and crisis. The children God created, raised, and cared for have rebelled against Him (1:2). Ultimately this rebellion will be dealt with in a great judgment (53:5). In some ways the first 39 chapters of Isaiah parallel the 39 books of the Old Testament, while the remaining 27 foreshadow the New. Isaiah 40 is the turning point. A Voice of comfort and grace breaks through. “Comfort, comfort my people.”
The prophet speaks tenderly but also cries out with a decisive proclamation. The sad days are over. Grief, shame, and sadness are coming to an end. Iniquity is pardoned and the penalty is completed. The Lord Himself is coming to visit His people (v.10).
Our world needs this message. We need God’s visitation. Strewn about us lie the realities of decay, brokenness, sin, judgment, bondage, and exile. Perhaps you’ve experienced this pain: the anguish of loss or separation, frustration, sickness, death, disappointment, or the destruction of someone or something you’ve loved.
“Warfare” in verse 2 refers to hard seasons or periods of duress that come as a result of punishment for sin. Isaiah speaks of Jerusalem’s destruction and the exile into Babylonian captivity (39:6-7), but he also points to the completion of all human suffering and longing. There is a double payment from the Lord, or, more precisely “an exact match” to meet the penalty of our sins. The Hebrew words used here refer to the Levitical blood sacrifice “accepted” by Yahweh as satisfaction for sin.1
Isaiah tells us that God’s coming will deal with our sins. There will be pardon, deliverance, restoration from exile, and a return to the promised land. So get ready. Prepare the way. The glory of the Lord is about to be revealed (40:5). God Himself is coming to visit.
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Dave Chaves
Dave Chaves, Technology and Product Development Manager, has worked in nonprofit, Christian communications for over 10 years, including most recently with Five Talents USA. He holds a master’s degree from Georgetown University and an MDiv from Africa International University. He’s been involved in cross-cultural missions in East Africa for over 10 years and is an Associate Missionary with the Society of Anglican Missionaries and Senders. Dave met his lovely wife Lucy in Kenya and they have four children. He is excited to be part of the CSLI team and to support communications and technology to further the ministry of discipleship.
