Compassion of The Repentant

Isaiah 57:14–21
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This passage tells how God relates to those who are humble and repentant (vv. 14-21). Even though the Lord is majestic, eternal, and holy, He fellowships with those who are contrite and lowly in spirit. His accusations and anger do not last forever, because of His grace. In the past He had to be harsh with His people because of their greed and independence. But when they repent He forgives them, giving healing, guidance, and comfort (v. 14). In the future someone would give an order to prepare the way so the Israelites could return to their land and to their God (Isa 62:10).

The reason for this proclamation is that God is who He is. He is the utterly transcendent God in relation to space (high and lifted up (Isa 52:13), time (lives forever), and character (holy) (v. 15). Yet He is also immanent, dwelling among repentant and humble people. God will not always be angry with sinners. His anger will come to an end because He has made provision for human sin through the Servant (v. 16). The Lord had been angry with the proud Israelite because of his desire for unjust gain, namely, for more and more for himself (v. 17).

In spite of Israel’s response, God would heal, lead, and strengthen the nation’s inhabitants who mourned over their sinfulness (v. 18). The result would be that those delivered would praise the Lord (v. 19). The wicked contrast with the humble who take advantage of God’s provision of grace (vv. 20-21). Far from being at peace, their existence is as tumultuous as the tossing sea, which is incapable of being at rest.

Application

This high and holy God came down to my level to save me because it is impossible for me to go up to His level to save myself (II Chron. 6:18).