Speaking to Israelites who would be in exile, contrary to their own expectations and the assurances of the false prophets, Isaiah assures them that they will awaken to the dire distress of their circumstances and they will groan in agony and cry out for rescue. “At that time,” Isaiah tells them,
“… you shall call out, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry out, and he will say, ‘Peace; Here I am.’ Isaiah continues, “And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.
And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations;
you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.”
On that day when your distress has reached its fullness, at just the right time, the Lord will answer, “Here I am with you in your midst to accomplish the greatest rescue in the history of the world.” And in the midst of the desert you will become like a watered garden, a blessing to all who hunger and thirst for life and joy and hope.
The day of our crying out has come; the day of the Lord’s answer has come; the day of our rescue has arrived: In Jesus the Word of the Lord is “Here I am, in your midst.” The day of the presence of Jesus’ peace is today – Come, then, let us gather with rejoicing to worship the present and powerful King!