The prophet describes the reciprocal relationship between God and the Assembly of Israel. This relationship will only deepen if the people of Israel also act to strengthen it and show their willingness to be in a relationship with God.

 

Yeshayahu prophecies about Jerusalem and says that, in contrast to her sorry state when her sons are in exile in Babylon, her situation will undergo a complete metamorphosis brought about both by her children who will return to her and by God.  Thus, joy and awakening will be aroused both from below, by the children of Israel and from above by God.

 

The Assembly of Israel and God are portrayed as a bride and groom. Just like a marriage when one partner is active and 'activates' the other, similarly here, God is active and as a result the children of Israel are inspired into action.  Yet, just as in the marital relationship the wife attracts her husband so that he will desire her and express his love for her, the prophet demands that the children of Israel do not wait passively for God to fulfill His promises and find favor in them. They should not hesitate to mention God's name and should never cease to call out to Him "until He makes Jerusalem a praise in the land." (62:7)

 

How are we to understand the prophet's demand?  Does God really need a reminder?  Are we afraid that He will forget about us in exile?  Most certainly not.  This continuous demand is for our sake.  When we express our desire to meet our King and receive His love and blessings, He looks fondly upon us and grants us His salvation.  Salvation only comes to those who demonstrate that they truly need it.