Isaiah's message is not a cheerful one. He speaks of the destruction coming on Israel because of the ways in which they strayed from the path of justice. Assyria was the super power that was going to be the instrument of chastisement, but there is also a word of comfort. Don't worry about Assyria - their day is coming too. Their punishment will be even greater. Today we don't think that every disaster is divine punishment, but often there are natural forces at work or we are just suffering the consequences of bad choices. This passage still speaks to us - it assures us that we live in a moral universe and that God's justice is impartial and fair. As we look around at our broken world, we remember that ultimately God is in charge.

Jesus rarely appealed to the sophisticated and world-wise. Jesus rejoiced that the things revealed in his time were given to ordinary people - those without status or big names. God decides who receives his revelation - he cannot be manipulated or bought. Jesus goes on to say that God has given everything into his hands and that Jesus can share this with whomever he wishes - even us! There is a 'catch' - we have to be both bold and humble enough to ask and receive.