Americans don't get enough rest. Millions, especially middle-aged adults, get less than the recommended seven to eight hours per night. An estimated 50-70 million people suffer from sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia, and the consequences can be huge. “Sleep debt” can lead, for example, to car accidents, irritability, inability to concentrate at work or school, a weakened immune system, and even chronic depression. Why the lack of sleep? Researchers believe it's a consequence of longer working hours and more access to and stimulation from media such as television and the Internet. Maybe this is why God's invitation for us to rest in Him sounds so appealing (40:28-31)!
This second part of Isaiah often looks beyond messages of conquest and exile to ones dealing with the future return, the distant future of the Messiah, and the still more-distant future of His Millennial Kingdom. Given that many Israelites didn't even think God's judgment would come, what must it have been like for the original audience to hear Isaiah's prophecies of hope?
Today's reading begins with God saying, “Comfort, comfort my people” (40:1-2). Then “Elijah” speaks, preparing the way for the Lord (40:3-5). All four Gospels agree in interpreting these verses as being fulfilled in the ministry of John the Baptist (e.g., Matt. 3:3). So this picture of God coming to His people was ultimately fulfilled in the Incarnation. God Himself came to be with us. Jesus Christ was God's Final Word or revelation to us. He was and is the coming glorious King!
On this basis, Isaiah exhorted his listeners to renewed faith. God is worthy of our absolute trust because His promises are sure. He's a tender Shepherd who cares for His people. His wisdom is far above our understanding. His power is evident in the creation. He knows the stars by name. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.
posted by I love Jesus! ! ! @ Monday, June 18, 2007
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