Restoration begins with a revelation of God’s holiness. Like Isaiah, we need to see more than our sinfulness and the sin of our nation. We need to see God’s brilliant presence, greatness, and authority.

The fallen nation of Israel and her rebellion is so devastating that only a remnant of God’s followers remained. Their future is in question. Their rejection against God is real, but His promises are true and He will triumph.

Isaiah experiences a heavenly encounter, saying: “I saw Adonai, Supreme Lord and Master. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. Attending him were mighty seraphim (the ‘burning ones’) calling out, holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. The whole earth is filled with His glory” (see Isaiah 6:1-3).

When Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, he responded: “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.” One of the seraphim took a live coal from the altar and touched Isaiah’s lips with it, saying, “See, this coal has touched your lips. Now your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven.” (see vs. 5, 7).

Isaiah sees he is no different than his people. He sees his own polluted heart and unclean words, his wrong-doing and offense. Yet, if he can be forgiven, then what was done for him can be done for anyone, no matter how far gone.

His hope is restored. Even if there is nothing left but a decaying stump of a fallen tree, it is not the end. It is the beginning. He prophesied that there was a holy seed in the stump—Jesus Christ, the Messiah—their deliverer (v. 13).

Like Isaiah, in response to such holiness and beauty, forgiveness and resurrection power, may we hear the voice of the Lord. May we hear His call and commission to tell the good news of Jesus Christ to those who have closed their hearts to His mercy. May we say, “I’m here—I’ll go—send me” (see vs. 8).

If you have lost hope for anyone—or for your city or nation, remember: Jesus is the Promise and Guarantee, and your prayers have great power. He will always have the last word. He is true to His word. He cannot, will not, go back on His word.