Today's Readings: Isaiah 40:25–31; Psalm 103; Matthew 11:28–30
“To whom will you compare me, or who is my equal?” asks the Holy One. This question found in Isaiah 40 is asked throughout the Scriptures. YHWH God demonstrates his superiority over all other so-called gods. He is the one who created the earth and everything in it (Ps 8:3-4). The heavens he created proclaim his glory and splendor (Ps 19:1). The number of stars, that we cannot count, were set in place by him and he gave each one a name (Ps 147:4).
The power and majesty of God is beyond compare. The longest and most comprehensive list of his accomplishments is found in Job 38-41 where he silences the lengthy debate of Job and his four foolish friends. God asks them, “Who is this who obscures my counsel with ignorant words? Get ready to answer me like a man; when I question you, you will inform me. Where were you when I established the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who fixed its dimensions? Certainly you know” (Job 38:1-3).
Who is God’s equal? There is no one – it isn’t even close.
And yet, we see the greatness of our God extends even further. Not only is YHWH God the all-powerful, all-knowing, everywhere-present Creator of everything that is, he shows the full extent of his greatness by graciously sharing his strength and might with those made in his image. Isaiah reminds God’s covenant people, “He never becomes faint or weary; there is no limit to his understanding. He gives strength to the faint and strengthens the powerless. Youths may become faint and weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isa 40:29-31).
So when his Son, his only Son, comes to the earth to represent him perfectly, we should expect him to be the exact reflection of his Father. And he is. Jesus’s life and ministry heals the sick, strengthens the weak, and encourages the faint-hearted. Jesus offers his followers not only an overwhelming sense of the power and majesty of God, but also his soul-resting and life-giving presence (Matt 11:28-31).
