ARISE, SHINE, FOR YOUR LIGHT HAS COME

Passage: Isaiah 60:1~22  

Key verse: 1


1. Nations will come to your light (1-9)

The Babylonians burned Jerusalem (586 BC) and took the people into captivity. Thick darkness covered the land. The darkness of sin became the thick darkness of despair. The prophet looked at the world; then he looked beyond, to God. 'The Lord rises upon you; his glory appears....' His light would draw all nations to its brightness. All who look to him become radiant. Isaiah was looking forward to Jesus, the light of the world (Jn 1:4,9; 8:12). God shines his light on people so they can be lights in a dark world.

2. The Lord will be your light (10-22)

God himself prepares a city for his people who have been humiliated by oppressors--and by sin's consequences. The walls of that city are named 'Salvation' and the gates are named 'Praise.' Its gates are always open (11). Abraham looked forward to that city--a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Heb 11:10). John spoke about it (Rev 21:23; 22:5).


Prayer: Lord, teach us to walk with you daily so that we may be radiant. Make us a light to the nations.

One Word: Nations will come to your light