The prophet forecasts the advent of a new day, when places and rites would be comparatively unimportant compared with the condition of the heart, vs. 1-4. The opening words were quoted by Stephen, when announcing the substitution of spiritual worship for the effete system which it superseded. See Acts 7:48, 49. What is the outward rite to God, when the spirit has fled? It was all one to him, whether a man killed a lamb in the Temple, or broke a dog’s neck on his farm. His chosen home is not in ornate temples but in contrite hearts!

The blessedness of God’s people is depicted in glowing words, vs. 5-14. God will appear, to the joy of his people and the recompense of their foes. Those times will be characterized by great revivals, and souls will be . easily born into the heavenly kingdom. The Jew and Gentile will meet like confluent streams in one blessed channel. But, above all, we shall become aware of the mother-side in God’s nature. As one whom his mother comforteth, v. 13.