Just a few months after...
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Just a few months after the beginning of World War II, General Douglas MacArthur was forced to flee from the Philippines. Many U.S. soldiers lost their lives in the Bataan death march, and only a small number were able to leave with the general. Hundreds of others were confined to concentration camps and many of these died from lack of food or as a result of the brutal treatment they received.
General MacArthur did not forget the G.I.s he left behind. When he reached Australia he said, "I shall return." He kept his promise three years later. His troops were able to rescue and give medical treatment to those who were still alive.
In our text Isaiah is appealing to Yahweh to return and save his people. The Jews have returned from the Babylonian exile to find Jerusalem and the temple in ruins. They are despondent and ask him to come and help them.
We are also challenged by this passage to prepare ourselves for the return of Christ. Just before he left his disciples, he said to them, "I will come again." We believe that. The Advent season reminds us once again of this blessed hope for all who believe in him.
General MacArthur did not forget the G.I.s he left behind. When he reached Australia he said, "I shall return." He kept his promise three years later. His troops were able to rescue and give medical treatment to those who were still alive.
In our text Isaiah is appealing to Yahweh to return and save his people. The Jews have returned from the Babylonian exile to find Jerusalem and the temple in ruins. They are despondent and ask him to come and help them.
We are also challenged by this passage to prepare ourselves for the return of Christ. Just before he left his disciples, he said to them, "I will come again." We believe that. The Advent season reminds us once again of this blessed hope for all who believe in him.
