I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Isaiah 22-25.

I am not sure how the prophecy about Jerusalem fits into the prophecies which precede it.  However, Isaiah expands on his theme warning against trusting in material protection instead of trusting in God.  He condemns the people of Jerusalem for building up their physical defenses without asking for God’s help.  When disaster loomed over them and they anticipated dying, instead of praying and fasting they feasted and drank.  Isaiah 22:13 is one of the most misused passages in Scripture.  People quote it, “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die,” as if it was the prophet’s advice.  In fact he was condemning people for taking that attitude.  When disaster looms and it looks as if we will die on the morrow, Isaiah tells us that we should fast, pray, and confess our sins, turning to God for salvation.

I am not quite sure what Isaiah is prophesying in chapters 24 and 25.  Is it a prophecy regarding the end times?  Is it a prophecy regarding what happens when mankind’s sins reach epic proportions and God brings judgement on the entire world?  Or does it refer to a specific time in history?  I am going to look at the second option.  Perhaps, Isaiah is referring to times like World War I, which was followed up by the flu pandemic, and when the Black Plague swept through the world.  I am sure there are a few other times throughout history when the population of the world was decimated.  In any case, Isaiah refers to a time of great devastation, when it seems like everyone has been killed, but a few survive.  While the devastation is happening, all joy is lost and celebrations are cancelled.  But those who survive praise the Lord when it is over and sing with joy that the troubles are behind them.

When the destruction is over it will be clear that God had planned it.  Those who survive will be those who turned to God.  They will see how He sheltered them and provides for their needs.  While I believe that Chapter 25 refers to the time after the end times (I am unsure about Chapter 24), it contains elements which remind me of Europe after the Black Death.  There was a renewal in faith in God and the powerful were less able to oppress the weak.  Economic opportunities opened up for those who previously would have been relegated to servitude.  However, I also want to highlight the parts which refer to a time which has not yet happened.  God will put an end to death and wipe away all tears.  The time will come when those who fear and worship God will never again experience sorrow or death.  What a great hope we have!