God encourages his exiled people by assuring them of his presence through trials, reminding them of their value to him, and promising to re-gather them.

Like Cyrus, which this text anticipates, the “Servant of the Lord” (in which he is announced in this passage) will bring forth Justice when he comes.  But what kind of justice is anticipated?

The Lord called into existence the things that do not exist, demonstrating his sovereign power through a simple, creative word. Christ’s ministry is nothing less than this. The outpouring of his divine authority is evident in what he accomplished and has promised for his new creation.  

Jesus sends his exhausted disciples into troubled waters, but he has a clear intention for them.