The enemies are on the horizon. Judah is in a time of darkness or uncertainty, waiting for a light to show there is a better future coming. Today’s first reading is from Isaiah 29:17-24. Beginning with the first verse the reading lets us know that something new and transforming is afoot. 

To the north, Lebanon is known for its extensive forests and cedar trees – even today the nation’s flag shows forth the mighty cedar.  So, what is with the mention of forest lands becoming orchards? In order to have orchards promised, the forest has to be cut down. Isaiah has used the imagery of such clearing before as a symbol of humiliation (2:13; 10:34; 37:24). This is the way of Isaiah telling Judah of the coming reversal in the positions of the noble/privileges and the common person.