Read Isaiah 52:7-10
What a prophecy clearly pointing to Jesus’ first coming while at the same time speaking to an earlier audience, those returning to Jerusalem after years in exile, apart from God. What a time to celebrate that reunion was!
There are a lot of joyful people in this psalm, many of whom are breaking into song because their joy just can’t be still. What was the source of such delight? Our God reigns and comforts us all at the same time. The victory belongs to the LORD, let’s make some music and worship!
Not only is Jesus in this psalm, but John the Baptist is there, too. John is that messenger who “brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation.” John’s message points to Jesus because God chose him to announce Jesus’ arrival. Jesus was only months younger than John, and John honored the purpose God had given him when he spoke of Jesus, the personification of peace and salvation.
Where else do you see hints about Jesus? “The LORD has demonstrated his holy power before the eyes of all the nations.” Through Jesus’ actions of healing, preaching, and praying, the nations did indeed see God’s holy power. We have same power available to us.
What Jesus accomplished on the cross and grave is God’s best victory of all time. “All the ends of the earth will see the victory of our God.” Did Isaiah understand what the victory was or would he be waiting and watching just like other believers? We are on this side of history with a very vivid picture of what that victory looks like, but at the same time stand clueless to God’s majesty. The final victory of God is yet to come. Are you ready?
What song comes to mind for you when you feel moved and really want to worship? Is it something simple like, “Awesome God,” or “How Great is Our God”? Maybe it’s an old hymn like “Amazing Grace.” Read this psalm again, and then break out into that song. This is between you and God. Here’s mine—I’ll be breaking into song with Chris Tomlin now.
Let’s pray. Father, you are an amazing God and a good, good Father. I can’t help but sing praises when I think of how you have delivered me through life to this moment. I love this season of Advent when we can focus on you and your intentions toward your people. You love me deeper than I can comprehend. Help me to tap into your power and be the person you have designed me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
