Isaiah 61:2 – “To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Isaiah 61:2 presents a striking dual message: one of grace and restoration and another of judgment. The “year of the Lord’s favor” refers to a time of divine blessing and mercy—a season of God’s goodness extended to His people. This echoes the concept of Jubilee in the Old Testament, a year when debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land was restored.
The “day of vengeance of our God” speaks to the certainty of God’s justice. This isn’t vindictive but a righteous response to sin and oppression. God’s judgment ensures that wrongs will be made right.
Finally, the verse highlights God’s tender compassion in comforting those who mourn. It assures the brokenhearted that their pain will not last forever because God’s restoration is near.
Historical Context
Isaiah 61 was written during a time when Israel faced exile and destruction. The people were suffering under the consequences of their sin, longing for deliverance and hope. The “year of the Lord’s favor” would have reminded them of God’s promises to restore them to their land and their relationship with Him.
The concept of divine vengeance would have assured them that God sees the injustice they endured and would act to bring justice. This wasn’t just about punishing their enemies but about restoring God’s order in the world.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals both God’s mercy and His justice—two aspects of His character that work together perfectly. The “year of favor” reminds us that God delights in showing mercy, extending grace to those who turn to Him. The “day of vengeance” reminds us that God is holy and will not ignore sin.
The balance between these truths highlights the depth of God’s love. His mercy provides hope, while His justice provides security. We can trust that God’s actions are always good, right, and timely.
Literary Analysis
Isaiah 61:2 uses contrasting phrases—favor and vengeance—to emphasize the fullness of God’s mission. The “year” of favor and the “day” of vengeance also highlight the greater weight of God’s mercy over His judgment, as favor lasts longer than judgment.
The poetic structure places comfort as the final thought, leaving the reader with the assurance of God’s compassion. The rhythm and balance of the verse reflect God’s orderly and purposeful nature in His dealings with humanity.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 25:10: The Jubilee year, a foundational concept for the “year of the Lord’s favor.”
- Luke 4:18-19: Jesus reads this passage in the synagogue but stops before mentioning “the day of vengeance,” emphasizing the immediacy of God’s grace in His ministry.
- Psalm 30:5: “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning,” echoing the comfort offered to those who mourn.
- Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath,” reminding believers to trust in God’s justice.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Isaiah 61:2 reminds us of the hope and balance in God’s work. We live in a time of grace—the “year of the Lord’s favor”—where salvation is freely offered through Jesus Christ. However, it also calls us to live with an awareness of God’s coming judgment.
This verse encourages us to share the good news of salvation while there is still time, to comfort those who are grieving, and to trust in God’s justice when we see evil and suffering in the world.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s deep love for His people. His “favor” is not something we earn but a gift of His grace. His “vengeance” is not arbitrary but a demonstration of His commitment to righteousness and His refusal to let evil go unchecked.
By promising comfort to those who mourn, God shows His tender care for the brokenhearted. His love is both strong and gentle, capable of upholding justice while offering healing.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Isaiah 61:2 is directly connected to Jesus. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from this passage and declares that the “year of the Lord’s favor” is fulfilled in Him. By stopping before the phrase “day of vengeance,” Jesus shows that His first coming was focused on bringing grace and salvation. The “day of vengeance” refers to His second coming, when He will return to judge the world and bring justice.
Jesus embodies the comfort promised in this verse, offering peace to those who mourn and rest to the weary (Matthew 11:28). Through His death and resurrection, He secured the ultimate restoration for humanity.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does understanding both God’s mercy and justice deepen your faith?
- In what ways can you proclaim the “year of the Lord’s favor” in your community?
- How can you find comfort in God’s promise to bring justice in His perfect timing?
- What does this verse teach you about Jesus’ role in God’s plan for humanity?
- How might this verse encourage you to bring hope to those who are mourning?
Isaiah 61:2 calls us to embrace the fullness of God’s character—His grace, justice, and compassion—and to live in light of His promises for a world in need of restoration.