Reading: Isaiah 36-39

‭Isaiah 38:16 – “The LORD Most High is the one who gives life to every heart, who gives life to the spirit!”

Today’s four chapters come almost word-for-word from 2nd Kings 17-18. The stories of Sennacherib’s invasion and Hezekiah’s illness are also recapped in 2nd Chronicles 32. The only “new” words are Hezekiah’s Psalm-like praise in response to God healing him from his deadly illness.

Chapters 36 and 37 deal with Assyria’s invasion. It began by conquering all of the smaller outlying towns in Judah. Attention was then turned to Jerusalem and King Hezekiah. Sennacherib’s field commander comes and taunts Judah, God, and the king. He calls for their surrender, warning them about trusting in God. Hezekiah humbles himself and goes to the temple, mourning the situation. He prays. Isaiah brings words that assure him. The taunts come again. Hezekiah prays again. Isaiah assures him again. God is in control. God has a plan. That night 185,000 soldiers are struck down by God’s messenger. Sennacherib withdraws. He is assassinated by his sons once back home.

Chapter 38 recounts Hezekiah’s illness and God’s healing. Because of his prayer and tears, God grants him 15 more years. In verses 9-20 we read Hezekiah’s grateful response. There is insight into common thoughts on the afterlife: he will no longer see God because God isn’t there. He also acknowledges God’s gift: “The LORD Most High is the one who gives life to every heart, who gives life to the spirit!” As this is true for us as well, may we too make music to God “all the days of our lives.”

A foreshadowing of what’s to come fills chapter 39. Rising power Babylon has come and seen all that Judah has. Isaiah tells Hezekiah, one day “nothing will be left.” Hezekiah reveals his human nature as he is glad it won’t be in his lifetime. After enduring a siege and surviving a deadly illness, we too might have this same thought!

Prayer: Lord God, it is good to review your mighty acts once again. They remind us of your power and your goodness. You continue to give life to our hearts and to our spirits. Thank you for this gift. Amen.