Many Americans have become very familiar with courtroom settings. This familiarity has been made possible by the O. J. Simpson trial and such programs as Judge Judy, Judge Brown, and the popular Court TV Channel.  In a sense, Americans are afforded an opportunity to become involved in the legal and judicial profession simply by pushing the correct button on their remote control. Here they can listen to the evidence, predict the outcome of various trials, and practice law without a license. 

Isaiah, the prophet in our Old Testament lesson for today, depicts a courtroom setting which is vastly different than what one usually pictures. This courtroom is a "heavenly courtroom." The people of God have been found guilty; they have been sentenced for their sins and are serving their prison term.…