Isaiah 52 begins with another wake-up call. Zion, the city of God, is urged to shake off her slumber, arise from the dust, and sit up in a dignified manner. She may feel worthless, for she has been defiled, chained, oppressed, and “sold for nothing.” But she is urged to put on her “beautiful garments” and “be seated” as a queen. She belongs to God, and in His eyes, she is still beyond price. He will redeem her “without money.” So this transformation will not be the result of some deal between God and the captors. He wasn’t forced to sell them into captivity in the first place, and there is no one who can stand up to Him and demand payment for their return. God is a debtor to no one. His saving work is always to glorify His own name. It was because of her sin that foreign invaders now occupy her streets. But in His goodness and grace, God is pursuing her, promising a deliverance from the punishment He Himself had predicted and then imposed (v 1-6). The excitement mounts as Isaiah pictures the coming of a messenger. The watchmen stationed on the wall of the city have seen him running on a distant mountain. They are rejoicing as the messenger approaches, for he signals “good news.” God has saved His people, defeated the enemy, and “redeemed Jerusalem.” The captives are finally free! Peace is announced and happiness is spreading. Not only are the ruins of Jerusalem commanded to burst into songs of joy, but all nations are drawn in, as the glory of Christ’s reign must reach even to “all the ends of the earth” (v 7-10).   Nothing remains but for Israel to lay hold of this promise in faith and to leave their captivity behind. Zion, not Babylon, is their true home, so they must come out of the old life and embrace a new identity, making a clean break from all sin and uncleanness. Likewise, as pilgrims journeying to Christ’s eternal kingdom, we are called to separate ourselves from worldly lifestyles, pressing on in purity toward our true, heavenly home. This must not be done “in haste,” as if running from life with an escapist mindset. Rather, we stride forward with calm confidence, keeping in step with our holy God. He is our strong escort, and we are constantly surrounded by His loving presence. Not only does He lead our steps, He follows as our “rear guard” (v 11-12). As the New Testament makes clear, Christ has appointed us as His gospel messengers. Having received His salvation, we are now sent out “publishing” this good news of peace. So with holy lives and active feet, let us carry the message far and wide. How will people know unless someone tells them? For further meditation: