Isaiah 60

• Vv. 1-9 The restoration of Israel surely may be seen as a resurrection of sorts! And, in the context of their redemption, surely the resurrection of Christ is the fulfillment of the promise for their future glory. The call to “Arise” can be seen as a raising with Christ, taking hold of the light that bursts forth from Christ who was the first to leave the grave. This is explored by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:20. In that verse, Christ is the first fruit, meaning he was first raised and presented to God. God blessed it and now the rest of the harvest, that is those who believe, will follow by being resurrected with him! And out of the darkness the Lord will call a people into the light to be his own. With the light of Christ shining, peoples of all nations will be gathered, bringing forth a wide and diverse population of worshippers.

• Vv. 10-18 Many nations of foreigners will come together and build a kingdom that is more beautiful than has ever been seen. Some will refuse to take part, and they will receive their punishment for refusing the light. The kingdom will be full of richness and of peace. The people will experience a joy and a fullness. There, all who come will be walled by Salvation surrounded with gates of Praise. The idea that foreigners come and build up this kingdom is beautiful because is how we see the church building up the kingdom today!

• Vv. 19-22 These verses end a beautiful chapter with an even more incomprehensible picture. We see similar descriptions in Revelation. The glory of the Lord will shine forever, lighting our lives.