In Chapter 62, verses 1-3 promise how bright and well-seen Jerusalem's righteousness and salvation will be to the nations. 4 & 5 talk about Jerusalem's people metaphorically as being married to God and to the land of that city. 6-9 calls the people to pray to God unceasingly for His provision for Jerusalem. 10-12 gives us a picture of Jerusalem being rebuilt and exalted among the nations, but also those nations proclaiming the coming salvation through "Him" who brings His reward and retribution with Him. The Jews surely interpreted this "Him" who brings to them a redemptive salvation as the Lord, their God. He is the One who makes them holy, redeems them, and it results in the city of Jerusalem being sought out.
Chapter 60 begins with a plea--from the Word of God to Zion/Jacob/the people of God--to let their light shine in the world. Despite the darkness of the world, the glory of God will be seen on them (i.e. not originating from them but from God to them) to the end that nations are drawn to their "rising" light (1-3). This is no different from the promise given to Abraham, that he would be blessed so that all nations of the world could also be blessed by coming to the one true God. Praises of the Lord are the ties that bind this family of faith together and bring prosperity (4-9, 11-14). God is the One who makes this happen, glorifying the ones who come to Him. Not only this, but Israel suffered because they turned from God but foreigners will restore Jerusalem/Zion (as we see in the book of Nehemiah). God both punishes and shows favor (10), allows His people to be overthrown but restores them (14), so that Israel will know the Lord is their Savior and Redeemer (16). Verses 18-22 give us a picture of the everlasting glory and light that comes from God alone, the same imagery that John uses in Revelation. |
AuthorThis blog is my process of struggling with God, reading to understand the truth and separate the facts of God from the fiction of thoughts and opinions. I invite all to enjoy the journey with me. Archives
July 2019
Categories |