Does Edom represent all nations who have opposed God and led his people astray? I’m not sure what to make of this passage. I do see it as representing God’s mercy revealed to a people who had been lost. What a startling and memorable depiction to be sure. While his royal garments were covered in blood, the LORD remained strong and full of intention.
He declares, “It is I, the Lord, announcing your salvation! It is I, the Lord, who has the power to save!” God is mighty to save not just judge and condemn. I like the words from the praise song, “Mighty to Save” from Hillsong.
Everyone needs compassion
A love that’s never failing
Let mercy fall on me
Everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Savior
The hope of nations
God has the power to save. While the mention of treading grapes is suggested, the garment stains of red here are from blood. “In my anger I have trampled my enemies as if they were grapes.” It’s hard for me to picture God in this way. Yet he is truly a warrior, fighting battles on our behalf we have no knowledge of. What a strong advocate we have acting on our behalf!
What do you make of this line? “I have been treading the winepress alone; no one was there to help me.” The work of judgment alone belongs to God. When we take on the role of judge, we are not being fair to others, ourselves, or God. Jesus atoned for our sin alone, hanging on the cross. What must Jesus have been feeling as he took our sins upon himself?
We see here the divine judgment against evil and injustice of those rebelling against God. “For the time has come for me to avenge my people, to ransom them from their oppressors.” God’s timing was perfect. He knew that he had to capture the attention of his people. He knew that rescuing them from their oppressors would be a good start. But only a start.
We know what happens next in terms of God’s involvement with his people. God’s people will continue to be rebellious. God will need to send his salvation wrapped up in a baby. A new kingdom will be established. Jesus is that king.
Isaiah has been hinting of Jesus’ arrival all along. Have you noticed how many of the prophecies point in his direction? It’s a beautiful thing when we see how the Old and New Testaments are woven together so beautifully.
How do we respond to this? The words in the song “Mighty to Save” say it well.
So take me as you find me
All my fears and failures
And fill my life again
I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in
And now I surrender
I surrender
Let’s pray … Lord, I do surrender to you and your will for my life. Forgive me for my own stubbornness. Thank you for how you have rescued me and fought so many unseen battles on my behalf. My heart is filled to overflowing. Fill me anew with your Spirit so I am ready to face each new day, alive and well, living in your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
