“And it shall come to pass in that day, declares the Lord of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off your neck, and I will burst your bonds, and foreigners shall no more make a servant of him. But they shall serve the Lord their God and David their king, whom I will raise up for them.” (Jeremiah 30:8-9)
The books of Kings and Chronicles end sadly: they describe how the king of Babylon conquers Israel, destroys their capital city and temple, and carries the people into exile. This seems to be the end of Israel as a nation, and thus the end of David’s royal line.
But even in this period of darkness and despair, God keeps sending his prophets. These men had warned the people of the horrors that would come if they would not turn back to the Lord, but once God’s judgments have come indeed, they offer the people hope. The destruction of Jerusalem and the people’s captivity in a foreign country are hard to bear, but God nevertheless remains faithful to his promises. Right in the midst of hopelessness, He assures the people that He will raise up “David their king” and will break the yoke of oppression.
This new king will even be more glorious than David. The prophet Isaiah describes him as “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” He also says that “of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end” (Isaiah 9:6-7). This must have sounded almost incredible to the people in Babylon!
God remains faithful to his rebellious people. He is full of grace and mercy!