August 12, 2022
For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. Isaiah 60:2 (KJV)
The evidence is rapidly mounting that our world has taken a dramatic downward turn. This is in keeping with prophetic truth, so that God’s people need not be surprised. The countenance of peace that we have, accompanied by genuine affection and empathy can be used of God to draw others toward the Source of all real peace. The return of Jesus is nearer than ever before, and it is truly a great time to be alive!
The book of Isaiah has been called a “mini-Bible” as its 66 chapters parallel the 66 books of the Bible. Chapter 60 of Isaiah, as the return of the Savior is anticipated in the stream of time, is a call for the people of God to wake up!
Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. (v.1)
The dark clouds that have recently moved over the earth will become thicker and still darker. This is the time that the truth found in the pages of God’s “love letter” will shine more brightly. Now is the time to issue an invitation to those around us to come and study the Bible together. Our gentle Shepherd desires to gather His scattered sheep. The gathering shadows and clouds of darkness in our world are lined with silver: ears will more readily hearken as He speaks through His word!
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27
Brothers and sisters, instead of thinking upon your own weakness or timidity, meditate upon the personal and intimate love of the Shepherd. His love for each of us knows no measure. Don’t you want everyone to learn of such love? We do not know of the battered, broken hearts behind many of the faces we behold on a daily basis. But He knows and cares deeply about every detail. Your own timidity will simply melt away as you share the light of His love . . .
“I have called you by name; you are Mine!” Isaiah 43:1b
“See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands.” Isaiah 49:16a
It is important to know that shepherds from ancient times never drove their sheep. There was no element of force or fear. The shepherd went before them, calling them with that voice which was familiar to them. And they followed.
“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:9,12