הביטו אל אברהם אביכם ואל שרה תחוללכם ואברכהו וארבהו ... (ישעי' נא-ב)
While in bondage, the Jewish people bemoaned their abandonment by Hashem, but were immediately reminded through Yeshaya HaNavi of their own rebellious behavior which brought about the exile and suffering. The Navi described what the times of Mashiach will be like and how the Jewish people will be gathered from all around the world and returned to their homeland. Ending with the loving and encouraging words of, “Look at Avraham and Sarah who bore you, for he was but one and I blessed him and made him many,” Yeshaya reminded the people of how they became a nation, and the blessings that they can look forward to. The question is, how does Avraham and Sarah’s story of childlessness relate to the nation’s bondage?
R’ Meir Leibush zt”l (Malbim) explains that Avraham Avinu and Sarah Imeinu were alone in the world with no future to look forward to. Sarah was a barren woman and incapable of having children and Avraham had no one to carry on his legacy. Yet, Hashem changed the very laws of nature and gave them a son who became a second pillar which the world stands on and established the Jewish nation.
Emunah is a fundamental trait which allows us to survive over the years. In times of worry and despair, Jews always turn toward the heavens and place their trust in Hashem that He will get them through whatever hardship they find themselves in.