The period during which Isaiah prophesied was a turbulent time for God's people. There were three different kings: Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The Assyrians were a constant threat finally destroying the Northern Kingdom in 721 BCE. Later it was the Babylonians who posed the greatest threat.

The chapters we read this week are written to the exiles who began to return to Jerusalem after King Cyrus' famous edict (to the Israelites: "Go Home!") was issued. The words in these final chapters are wonderfully poetic and they serve to comfort, strengthen and encourage God's people. And boy, did they need those important words! What they returned to was complete devastation. The task of rebuilding was overwhelming. The words of Isaiah remind them and us that it is God's Word, and God's Word alone, that endures forever (see Isaiah 40:8).

On Thursday we begin to read from the prophet Jeremiah. More about this prophet next week.

Facebook Question

Join the discussion on the SPD One Year Bible Read-Along Facebook group page!

One of the participants in the Read-Along recently reflected on the gift of daily reading in the context of the relationship he shares with his father. They are reading together. And then, they are talking about what they are reading. The daily reading has enlivened their conversations and deepened their love for one another. Perhaps there is someone you might invite to join you and together you can read and listen for God's voice.