This final chapter contains a two-fold promise / warning from God: those who remain unrepentant will be destroyed for their sin, and those who remain faithful to God will be restored for all eternity.
““Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy… I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream… As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem. You shall see, and your heart shall rejoice; your bones shall flourish like the grass; and the hand of the Lord shall be known to his servants, and he shall show his indignation against his enemies.” (v10, 12-14 abr)
We may dislike hearing that our God of love would actually destroy people. The fact is, He is also a God of righteousness and justice, which demand a harsh penalty for sin. Those who remain unrepentant, are seen as God’s enemies (because they literally oppose Him and His will).
This is why our mission to teach the gospel message is so critical: the Holy Spirit wants to change our enemies’ hearts, transforming them into our coheirs in Christ. Our God of love wants all people to receive His bountiful blessings, and be welcomed into the New Heaven and New Earth. This is only possible if we fully engage and partner with the Holy Spirit’s promptings in our lives.
All those who receive the salvation of Jesus, and help build His kingdom, will then receive overflowing peace and joy, spending an eternity in the presence of our Lord and Savior. Now that reward for us and our future siblings is more than worth a small self-sacrifice in this present life.
Father God, our Righteous and Just Lord, we understand Your high standards for us. Thank you for making a way for those requirements to be met through the blood and righteousness of Jesus. May we continue to humble ourselves, seek forgiveness, and spread the good news of that salvation. May we never miss a prompting from Your Spirit, or an opportunity to teach Your word. May we honor, glorify and obey You, every moment, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training