Isaiah 6 gives us a picture of the Lord on his throne. The walls of his temple shake with songs of praises. What a beautiful image of worship. Isaiah, when confronted with the awesomeness of God is made fully aware of his shortcomings and that he cannot measure up. God blots out his sin and guilt. God asks for someone to tell the people about Him. Isaiah responds saying, “Here am I; send me!” The task Isaiah is given is difficult and long but he willingly accepts his commission.

We too, when confronted with God’s awesomeness are immediately made aware of our sin. But God has rid us of guilt and sin. God asks us as those forgiven to proclaim God’s justice and forgiveness to the world. The task may be difficult and long. Do we respond as Isaiah did or do we balk?  That is the question each of us must ask.

Isaiah 7 tells of Isaiah’s encounter with Ahaz. Isaiah gives Ahaz the opportunity to trust in God’s plan but he refuses. Isaiah tells of the future ramifications of this lack of trust. Israel will be occupied.

Isaiah also tells of one who will follow him, a child who will be called Immanuel. Most scholars believe this is a prediction of the rise of Hezekiah, who did indeed walk with God. As we remember God spared Jerusalem while Hezekiah was alive but then it fell to the Assyrians.

This prophecy is also a very familiar one relating to Jesus as the Messiah. It is repeated in the New Testament birth narrative. Here we see a prime instance of a prophecy relating to the near and far future of the people of Israel.

In 2 Timothy 2 Paul continues to encourage Timothy to be bold in proclaiming the true gospel and fight those who do not. He, also, encourages Timothy to lead a life the is in keeping with the right teachings so that others will not be confused or hurt.