“Behold, the Lord God comes with might,
and his arm rules for him;
behold, his reward is with him,
and his recompense before him.
He will tend his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms;
he will carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead those that are with young.”
– Isaiah 40:10-11
What marvelous images and promises regarding God Almighty! He comes with might. He rules with sovereignty, wisdom, and power. He comes with justice. He punishes the guilty and rewards the righteous. God is mighty! He is triumphant! He rights wrongs and punishes the wrongdoers forever and ever. This promise makes us want to stand up and cheer. It makes us want to cry out, “Come, Lord Jesus!” as we long for this day to dawn here in this hurting, dark, and fallen world.
And yet, we immediately see God’s tenderness toward His people. Like the Great Good Shepherd that He is, God tends us, gathers us, holds us close to Him, and gently leads us. God is nurturing. He’s gentle and kind. He’s loving and tender. He cares for our pains and carries us in our weaknesses. This promise makes us want to cry great tears of joy and delight. Our Lord understands us! He loves us. He cares for us. He sustains us through every dark and painful season of our lives.
Both these images describe God. We are wise to remember them both, give thanks for both, and praise and worship God for both. Thank You, God that You are all-powerful! Thank You, God that You are a careful protector and nurturing God! Thank You, God for Your rule and reign! Thank You, God for Your loving comfort! Thank You, God for the justice You will mete out across the world. Thank You, God for Your gentleness in our pain and Your strength in our weakness. Thank You, God!!!