Biblical Context:
Isaiah's response to God's presence is a pivotal moment in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, found in Isaiah 6:1-8. This passage describes the prophet Isaiah's vision of the Lord, which occurs in the year that King Uzziah died. This vision marks Isaiah's calling to his prophetic ministry and is a profound encounter with the divine holiness and majesty of God.

The Vision:
Isaiah 6:1-4 describes the scene: "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings: with two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they called out to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth.' The doorposts and thresholds shook at the sound of their voices, and the temple was filled with smoke."

This vision reveals the transcendence and holiness of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and the reverence due to Him. The seraphim, angelic beings, proclaim God's holiness, underscoring the divine nature that is utterly distinct from creation.

Isaiah's Reaction:
Confronted with the overwhelming holiness of God, Isaiah's immediate response is one of self-awareness and confession. Isaiah 6:5 records his reaction: "Then I said: 'Woe is me, for I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts.'"

Isaiah's response highlights the human condition in the presence of divine holiness. He recognizes his own sinfulness and the sinfulness of his people, acknowledging that he is unworthy to stand before the Lord. This moment of confession is crucial, as it demonstrates the proper posture of humility and repentance when encountering God.

Cleansing and Commissioning:
Following Isaiah's confession, a seraphim flies to him with a live coal taken from the altar. Isaiah 6:6-7 states: "Then one of the seraphim flew to me, and in his hand was a glowing coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. And with it he touched my mouth and said: 'Now that this has touched your lips, your iniquity is removed and your sin is atoned for.'"

This act of cleansing signifies God's grace and the removal of Isaiah's sin, preparing him for the mission ahead. The coal from the altar symbolizes purification and atonement, illustrating that God provides the means for cleansing and restoration.

After this transformative experience, Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?" Isaiah's response is immediate and willing: "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8). This marks the beginning of Isaiah's prophetic ministry, as he accepts the divine commission to be God's messenger to the people of Israel.

Theological Significance:
Isaiah's response to God's presence is rich in theological meaning. It underscores the holiness of God and the necessity of human repentance and cleansing to stand in His presence. The passage also highlights God's initiative in calling and equipping His servants for His purposes. Isaiah's willingness to respond to God's call serves as a model of obedience and dedication for believers, emphasizing the importance of being open to God's leading and ready to serve His will.