It seems God is still on trial here. “Bring your strongest arguments. Come now and speak. The court is ready for your case.” You can think of this as Part 2 of 2. In our last reading, we were blown away by the majesty of God being presented. Shouldn’t the promises made by the creator of all things be totally trustworthy? Well, remember the first audience might need a little coaxing to believe that this amazing God would actually care personally about them.
A new character enters the scene. Who is this king of the east? While not mentioned by name in this verse, his identity will become known soon enough. It’s Cyrus II of Persia. He will be the king to take down Babylon where the Israelites have been in captivity. This is an important passage to show that God was going to use a pagan ruler to help in bringing his people back home to Jerusalem.
The message shifts back to God’s chosen, those feeling abandoned in a foreign land. “I have called you back from the ends of the earth, saying, ‘You are my servant.’ For I have chosen you and will not throw you away. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Now it’s getting personal. God is calling them by name and offering them his protection and strength.
I, myself, have underlined this in my Bible. There are plenty of times I have felt afraid of something outside of my control. Relying on this promise, knowing that God has my back, too, can really help in those times of struggle. God’s perspective is so much better than mine. He can see into the future. He knows how things work out. There is always a blessing to every misfortune. If nothing else, it’s knowing that God was right there beside you. A comfort indeed!
The people are thinking, “But what about our idols and other gods?” In the absence of knowing our God, the people have strayed. As we’re in a court of law, it’s the people’s turn now to take the stand. “Present the case for your idols,” says the Lord. “Let them show what they can do,” says the King of Israel. “Let them try to tell us what happened long ago so that we may consider the evidence. Or let them tell us what the future holds, so we can know what’s going to happen.”
Sounds a little bit like a trick to me. God knows full well that these idols and supposed gods will not speak or have any vision to share. Weren’t these gods “supposed” to have special powers? They certainly wouldn’t be able to predict what will happen and how the people of Israel will be released to go back home. That is God’s plan alone. And his promise is “do not be afraid.”
How much time is yet to pass before Cyrus II destroys Babylon? I do not know. But the plans are in motion. God wants to give his people hope and assurance. He is with them. They don’t have to be afraid. The people need to simply put the two messages together and realize how blessed they are. To have such attention and protection from the maker of all things.
What are you putting your trust in these days? Does God need to go on trial to plead his case with you, or are your personally connected to your Savior King?
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for watching out for me. Forgive me for doubting you and wondering where you are at times. I am grateful you are by my side. It’s hard to express how joyful it makes me to know I am loved by you. Give me the boldness and courage I need for this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
