the tears in the prophet's eyes

Therefore I said: "Look away from me; let me weep bitter tears; do not labor to comfort me concerning the destruction of the daughter of my people." 

Isaiah 22:4

The prophet Isaiah is moved to sorrow and tears when God gives him the oracle regarding the fall of Jerusalem. He is personally moved by the reality and the impact of the message that God has given him to proclaim. He weeps at the prospects of destruction, but he also weeps at the callous disregard of the citizens of the city when he gives this proclamation.

The message seems to have no affect on the people of Jerusalem. They go on their ways. The continue in their business and industry. They shrug off the reports of future destruction with parties and plans. It is as if Isaiah has said nothing to them at all. And that is probably the deepest part of the prophet's painful sadness. They will fall hard when they do finally fall. The nation will not be able to party much longer. The walls will come down and the city will burn.

There are seasons in ministry where this is the experience. Every true person who is yielded to be used of God among people will see it. It is expected that non believers will reject God. It is heart-breaking when His own people do so. But the Word of God must often be shared and boldly preached with tears in the prophet's eyes. In that pain and passion the truth can be known. And precious is that sort of sorrow.