On this second Sunday of Advent, pastor Ed continues our series on “Promises” based on Isaiah 40:1-5. As the remnant in Babylon looked back, they saw failure and sin, and they needed encouragement. The Jews had a rough road ahead of them as they returned to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple, but the Lord would go before them to open the way. The picture here is of an ambassador repairing the roads and removing obstacles, preparing the way for the coming of a king. The image of the highway is frequent in Isaiah’s prophecy (see 11:16). Of course, the ultimate fulfillment here is in the ministry of John the Baptist as he prepared the way for the ministry of Jesus (Matt. 3:1–6). Spiritually speaking, Israel was in the wilderness when Jesus came, but when He came, God’s glory came (John 1:14). The way back may not be easy, but if we are trusting God, it will be easier.
