SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 65:17-25

OBSERVATION:
God’s plan of salvation begins in Israel, centered in Jerusalem, but His goal is for all the world to be restored (new heavens and earth). It is helpful to read ”my followers” in place of Israel, and Jerusalem, to see these words in their global context.
The day is coming when those who follow God’s ways will be honoured, blessed, protected.
God is re-creating this world to restore the original paradise, populated for eternity with loving, sinless people – no more curse of death, violence, misery.
Imagine God rejoicing and taking delight in us, sinless, loving and lovable (v.19).
Those were difficult days, when they worked hard but did not enjoy the benefit of their work (vv.21-23).
God will live with us again, ”Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear” (v.24).

APPLICATION:
God is working towards this world of peace, am I?
Maybe I need to become a Christian Peacemaker, even if it means putting my own life at risk.
The resurrection is God’s guarantee that my labour is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58)
This message is not a generic comfort for all people, it is spoken to those who have chosen to live for God and His purpose.
Am I enjoying this life too much, living in excessive comfort, just dabbling in God’s purpose? There is a real danger that those who are friends of this world end up being enemies of God. Those who love the world cannot love God (James 4:4, 1 John 2:15-17).

PRAYER:
Lord, You are working for a better world, where ALL people will live in peace and safety. Help me not to be blinded by my own worldly comfort to ignore the plight of 2/3 of the world, and to work with You in establishing Your world of peace – even if it causes me discomfort. Amen.