Summary of The Haftorah:
Haftorah Lech Lecha
Isaiah 40:27 - 41:16
This week's Haftorah continues the theme of Hashem's manifest presence within
nature and our selection as the Chosen People. The opening verses, taken from
the end of Yishaya Chap. 40, directly attribute strength and success to belief
in Hashem. "But those who put their hope in Hashem shall renew their
vigor...they shall run and not weary...." (40:31)
Hashem's eternity in relation to all generations is established, "...I am
first, and with the last ones I am He." (41:4) and it therefore makes sense to
trust Hashem. This realization mirrors Avraham's quest for understanding.
Natures inherent consistency and order revealed itself to Avraham as absolute
proof of a Creator who cares for His creations. "...he says of the cement,
"It is good," and he strengthened it with nails that it should not move."
(41:7)
With the conviction of certainty and truth, Avraham embraces G-d as a
true servant. Hashem, in return, bestows upon him the singular accolade as
the one "who loved me". In all of the Tanach, only Avraham is referred to in
this manner. To love Hashem means to trust Hashem, and Avraham trusted Hashem
more completely than anyone else. In merit for his devotion, Hashem promises
to protect his children from the onslaught of the other nations.
As all things are put into perspective, we realize that our nation's
greatness and praise is but a reflection of Hashem's greatness. (41:16)
