Theme: Christ as our Shepherd King. Isaiah 40 has the Lord coming to save and comfort his dispossessed people. He comes as a mighty king who will rule his people in justice. At the same time, he is a loving shepherd, caring for his wounded sheep. The Old Testament held up the ideal of the king of Israel as a shepherd. In so doing the emphasis shifts from the desires of the king to the needs of the people. The Gospel Lesson from Mark 1 has John the Baptist pointing to this ruler who was mightier than himself.

COMMENTARY

Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1-11
This passage commences the second major division of the book of Isaiah, addressed to the exiles in Babylon. They are words of comfort and hope. The time of punishment has past; now the Lord will prepare a level path for the captives to return…