This is a chapter full of positive promises and good hope for the church of Jesus Christ. As we have seen in earlier passages there may be occasional references to the return of the exiled Jews from Babylon. However, there is much deeper spiritual depth and meaning to the prophet’s words when seen through New Testament eyes. Isaiah speaks of the church’s enlargement, victory and ultimate triumph. He provides some beautiful references to our Saviour and Redeemer. He emphasises Christ’s success in gathering His church for the glory of Jehovah God. Light shining in darkness The opening call to ‘arise, shine’ may be understood as a call from God the Father to the Lord Jesus Christ to rise up and shine forth in His covenant…

The opening verse of this chapter is for saints who feel forgotten and unnoticed. Hold on in hope to God’s promises even when the Lord seems far away. Persevere in prayer even when His responses seem delayed. The Lord loves us, His people, and whether we see immediate evidence for it or not, He is actively caring for His little flock. Be sure, His ‘hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear’. When the Lord tarries There is no lack of power in God to do what He has said. Our Lord is a prayer-hearing and prayer-answering God. There is wisdom in God’s scheduling and there is goodness in His method even if we cannot see the…