There is a verse in Isaiah that holds a deep mystery for me. In that passage, God says to His people, “Hineni, here I am.” That seems backward. I should respond that way to Him. Hineni implies availability and a willingness to act. He is deserving of my full attention, availability, my all. But it's the Creator and King of the universe who says, “Here I am. I’m with you.” It boggles my mind. How can that be? God’s love is so great that He reaches down to be with us. He says I’m here. I hear you. I am for you.
The great I AM is also I AM here. Where His people are, He is in their midst.
Therefore my people shall know my name. Therefore in that day they shall know that it is I who speak; here I am.” Isaiah 52:6
He even avails Himself to those who don’t know Him yet. He comes and reveals His presence.
I was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for me; I was ready to be found by those who did not seek me. I said, “Here I am, here I am,” to a nation that was not called by my name. Isaiah 65:1
Both revelations are initiated by God, making Himself known to all. But what leaves me totally undone is that He also responds to our cry.
Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ Isaiah 58:9
You shall call and He will answer. God hears and responds to those who follow Him by His very presence. Our Father God answers, not because He has to, or owes us, but because He loves us. How great must that love be? That He would stoop to hear our cry and be present with us.
These are comforting words when my heart cries out to Him. I just need to trust His answer. Hineni. I am with you. God’s presence is reassured at the time I need it most. “I am with you.” He who comforts and consoles as a friend, who conquers like a king and protects like a father, is with me.
Yes, the great I AM is also the I AM here. Bless His Name.
