As Isaiah brings his message of God’s promised redemption to its climax, he calls to the people:

Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. (Isaiah 12:5-6)

Why? Because in that day the Lord will have shown himself faithful to save his people by establishing his dwelling among men, Immanuel. Now, in Jesus God has shown himself – and shown himself to be faithful! Indeed, He has come and made his dwelling among men, as man, and has provided a Priest and a King, a King of Righteousness and Peace, from among men to rescue men from themselves!

That day has come; the promised day of praise and rejoicing has come! So let us come into his presence with rejoicing, for he has done gloriously! Let us shout out and sing for joy for he has shown himself to be great in the midst of his people before the watching world!

Order of Worship for 12.21.08