There is little that escapes Jeff’s notice. He has an eye for detail. Visual changes are quickly caught. New bath mats or a new outfit or simply rearranging a few knickknacks – it’s fun to hear how quickly he’ll say, “Hey, Mom, I like!” Now the rest of the family is totally different. Sometimes it’s humorous, but at times it can be irritating. It would probably be easier to find lost items if they were really lost, but when they are in plain view or right where they were last used, they become very difficult to find. In reality we probably all do it in our own way. We miss the obvious – visually or problematically.
In Isaiah 40, God’s people are in need of comfort. God offers Himself. God is presented as an option with no valid alternatives. No other truth is more foundational to our finding the answer to whatever cry comes from our heart. The answer is always with God. There are no other options. As Isaiah writes, God doesn’t want His people to miss His offer. Catch the picture. God wants to be plainly seen. As His glory radiates across the horizon, everything that hinders the line of vision is removed. The highway is straightened. The valleys are raised up to be on a level plain, evenly stretched out beside mountains and rugged places that have been flattened. Look! The glory of God is being revealed! You have to see it. You must see it. Nothing stands in your way. Verse 9 says, “Here is your God!” He offers His presence, His power, and His resources. More awe-inspiring, He offers His very personal love and His involvement with the details of your life. When we see God and when we know He is the answer, we cling tenaciously to Him. The hope in verse 31 implies waiting, and while I wait, I pray. And I pray again, and again. Vulnerably and honestly, I pour out my heart and my need to God. I give God every piece of the situation and I count on Him. I rely on His character, His power, His love, His wisdom, His active involvement. Certain truths begin to burn themselves into my heart. I know God is in control, and He is working whether I see Him or not. I know God loves me and He wants to give to me. I can always trust His heart. Don’t miss the obvious.
(Related Bible reading: Isaiah 40:3-31)
