This chapter has two main themes: God calling His people to be servants, and God restoring His people.
” ‘I will keep you and give you as a covenant to the people, to establish the land… saying to the prisoners, “Come out,” to those who are in darkness, “Appear”… they shall not hunger or thirst, neither scorching wind nor sun shall strike them… and by springs of water will guide them. Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted.” (v8b-10, 13 abr)
This passage, somewhat reminiscent of Psa 23, reminds us that God faithfully restores His faithful followers. No matter how terrible life’s circumstances get, no matter how many trials and hardships we encounter, God will restore us beyond our imaginations once we reach His presence in heaven.
Do we recall Job? He suffered what may be the second-greatest level of suffering in all of scripture (second to Jesus, of course). He was restored in this world, but more importantly, he was restored into God’s holy presence in heaven because he remained faithful through his trials.
Paul reminds us “[we can] consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Rm 8:18) We have a bright and beautiful future if we endure the current sufferings of this world, while helping build Jesus’ kingdom. The future reward for God’s faithful follower’s and Jesus’ kingdom that they help build will dwarf whatever struggles we face today.
Father God, our Magnificent and Glorious Lord, You promise a bright and awesome future that is far beyond our ability to imagine. Spirit please help us remain faithful through the trials of life, serving our Lord and neighbors with the love of Jesus. Thank you Jesus for showing us how to love our Father and neighbors. Father we seek to honor, glorify, obey, and serve You faithfully, every moment of every day, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training