Isaiah 35

“Say to those who have an anxious heart, "Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you" (v4). Israel knew the Messiah would bring the reign of God, both justice and salvation, but they didn’t understand that salvation would come first. Jesus fulfilled the Messiah’s role - “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, the ears of the deaf unstopped” (v5) – and, shockingly, opened the “Way of Holiness” to everyone (v8). He will return to bring “the recompense of God.”

“The redeemed shall walk there” (v9). Our salvation has already begun. God’s reign has broken in, and one day the King will return.