Scripture
Flowers and grass fade away but what our God has said will never change.
Observation
God promises an end for punishment of Jerusalem and her people. God's discipline lasts only as long as it is needed. It's not pleasant but sometimes we need a practical reminder of God's expectations of us.
The announcement of the ministry of John the Baptist is given here: “Clear a path in the desert! Make a straight path in the wilderness!”
Here we see again the dual focus of prophecy. The message was originally given at the time of the Exile- Isaiah is promising that even though Judah is to be punished, even beforehand God is announcing forgiveness and pardon. On the other hand this passage also refers too the coming of Jesus, or more specifically the ministry of John the Baptist.
Application
We like the promise of “Comfort comfort for Jerusalem.” It's great to have that promise of pardon. The debt is paid, punishment is ended. But the fact that this promise is given BEFORE the punishment starts is even better! God is promising that whatever happens in the exile, He is still with them providing the way back home.
For us, Jesus is the sign of that promise. Whatever we go through, no matter how great the suffering, God's promise of pardon is already there.
Prayer
Thank you Jesus for being the pardon for my sin.
Beautiful words!
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