Passages that start with “Then” intrigue me. Why? Because, they indicate a mystery to pursue; an opportunity to go on an adventure. Something happened before it that required the word “Then” and what happened before it makes all the difference to understanding the meaning of the passage.
 
So, what happened before, “Then” in this passage? Isaiah is told to “not hold back” and to “shout like a trumpet” (v.1a), statements used when messages of extreme urgency are about to be delivered. What is that message? That the people of Israel are being called out for “their rebellion” (v.1b).
 
The people think they are doing what they are supposed to be doing. They are focused on ritual practices of piety that, to be fair, were deemed appropriate in many circumstances. They are even upset with God for not responding to what they are doing (v.3). Yet, they are being called out for being severely out of step with the will of God. So, what gives?
 
It’s the focus on the self rather than a focus on the other. Isaiah makes it clear that isn’t going to cut it (v.4).
 
So, what does God want from the people? To partner with them for a greater cause. To “loose the bonds of injustice”, to “let the oppressed go free” (v.6), to feed the hungry and house the homeless, to clothe the naked and not hide from all of it (v.7). Basically, Isaiah is saying, don’t let your personal piety blind you to the needs of others. Do not let your rituals get in the way of doing the work of God.
 
The next word in verse 8? “Then.” “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,” (v.8a). Not before then. Then. Which is where verse 9 starts. “Then.”
 
“Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and God will say, Here I am.”
 
The second part of verse 9 through verse 12 reinforces the message of the assurance of God’s support if the people focus their attention and their lives on serving others as opposed to themselves.
 
But, but, but… does that mean God only shows up when we’re doing the right thing? Does that mean God will only be there for us when we act the right way? I don’t think so, but it would be arrogant of me to answer directly for God.
 
I do believe that God is there with us and is for us no matter what. I’m confident God was there for me on those days I desperately wish I could do over, and I believe God is there in the process of repairing the damage I did on those days.
 
However, I believe that God is easier to see when I’m focused more on us and less on me. I believe it’s easier to hear God say, “Here I am” when I’m working to free others from oppression than when I am concerned about my personal salvation.
 
Early in Isaiah, in Chapter 6, Verse 8, in response to God’s call Isaiah says, “Here I am.”  Now, in this passage, just a little over six chapters from the end, God says, “Here I am.”  Isaiah said, “Here I am; send me!”  

I wonder what would have happened if instead Isaiah had said, “Here I am; save me!”