There aren’t many visions as complicated as Isaiah’s visions. In verse 1, the prophet announces the breaking news with a live, happening-right-now feel to it. In the last verse of the chapter, the good news isn’t at all current. At an appropriate time, the LORD will do it.
Of course, the author is aware of the decree by Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem. But definitely, the prophet is referring to some other time when the LORD shows up in glory.
The fact that the author of the Book of Revelation relied on this prophecy is significant. He pointed to a time when God’s people won’t need any physical lights other than the brilliance of the presence of the LORD. It is definitely an event for the Revelator’s future. Compare verse 19 to Revelation 21 verse 23.
The reference to light brings to mind the LORD’s presence among His people in the form of a pillar of fire by night. The LORD who had said, “let there be light”, will finally be that same light to His people.
In between the opening verse and the last verse are numerous references to God’s unique presence amongst His people. We also have several references to the generosity of the LORD during the good times of Isaiah’s past. Simply put: this same God shall be your God – full-time!
“And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord.” Verse 6b. It is a throwback to the great times of King Solomon when the nations brought gifts to Jerusalem. Remember the queen of Sheba!
We have also seen King David’s prosperous years when the nations brought materials for his house as well as the temple.
“Instead of bronze, I will bring you gold, and silver in place of iron.” Verse 17a. During the difficult years of the Kings of Judah, an impoverished nation would replace gold shields with bronze shields. We shall see the reversal of lost fortunes for the nation.
“The least of you will become a thousand, the smallest a mighty nation.” Verse 22a. Whatever the LORD means, regardless, the history-long blessing of increase or multiplication shall come to bear. We have already seen the full extent of restored Dominion as well as Prosperity – the history-long blessing on mankind in full swing.
“You will drink the milk of nations and be nursed at royal breasts.” Verse 16b. It is one little statement but fully loaded with memories of God’s eternal care for Israel. Moses’ time at the palace under the care of Pharaoh comes to mind.
Chapter 60 is one very long chapter with very few verses. It takes you places down the generations of God’s people. You pause at every stage to ponder the generosity of the LORD. Then the very last statement of the chapter: “in its time I will do this swiftly;” who wouldn’t love to ponder these thoughts with the blessed eternity in mind?
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