This third week of Advent we have focused on the angel's
testimony; “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth
peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14.
The best word picture for this peace on earth is from the prophet
Isaiah 11th chapter, where we have also, learned about the
stump of Jesse.
One of the challenges of Isaiah's prophecy is God in his
sovereignty gives a view of time that mortals can not fully grasp.
The context starts in Chapter ten, with the judgment of Assyria
around 740 B.C. The next Mountain of time is the arrival of the
Messiah Jesus. Then God gives a glimpse of the endgame in
verses six through 11. Ends the chapter by returning to the
present at the time of Isaiah.
Here is God's Word Picture of Peace on Earth;
The wolf will live with the lamb,
the leopard will lie down with the goat,
the calf and the lion and the yearling[a] together;
and a little child will lead them.
The cow will feed with the bear,
their young will lie down together,
and the lion will eat straw like the ox.
The infant will play near the cobra’s den,
and the young child will put its hand into the viper’s nest.
They will neither harm nor destroy
on all my holy mountain,
for the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea. Isaiah 11:6-9
A golden age is yet to come, a time of peace when children can
play safely with formerly dangerous animals. Not all of this was
fulfilled at Christ’s first coming. For example, nature has not
returned to its intended balance and harmony (see Romans
8:9-22). Such perfect tranquility will be possible only when
Christ returns to reign over the earth.
As followers of the Messiah, our role is to occupy till Jesus
returns. Our purpose is to begin the work of God's redemption.
Instead of a focus on material possessions, we are to ensure God
has full possession of our life. So we give generously, to ensure
all of God's children have enough. So we joyously, testify to God's
blessing so others may see the light. Today, ask yourself, who
needs the goods God has blessed me to use? Who needs my
joyous testimony?
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