In Isaiah 6, we are drawn into the blazing holiness of God and the humbling purification of His servant. As King Uzziah died, Isaiah entered the temple and beheld the Lord, exalted and enthroned in glory. Amid national uncertainty and personal fear, the prophet encountered the true King, whose majesty shook the foundations of the temple. The seraphim’s cries of “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” revealed the overwhelming grandeur of God’s presence.

Yet the most profound moment was the transformation of Isaiah’s own heart. Confronted with his sin and the sin of his people, he cried, “Woe is me! I am undone.” Then a burning coal from the altar touched his lips, cleansing guilt and igniting a new purpose. Judgment became grace, shame became calling, and from that altar of purification came a mission: “Whom shall I send?” And the forgiven prophet answered, “Here am I. Send me.”

This passage teaches that God sanctifies before He sends. True worship begins when we see Him as He is—holy, righteous, and worthy—and recognize our need for His mercy. The burning coal symbolizes the purifying work of Christ’s sacrifice, preparing hearts to speak and serve on behalf of a holy God. How might this vision of God’s holiness and mercy shape your response to His calling today?