Isaiah 65-66
In his final two chapters, Isaiah again presents a future joyous world where justice prevails and oppression is absent, where carnivores become herbivores, where there is long life and peace, and no weeping. But this time the LORD makes it explicitly clear that this is not merely some incremental improvement of conditions. This is a new creation: For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth… (Isaiah 65:17a)
Glory!
But this new creation is not for everyone. It is not for those who obstinately rebel against the LORD. (Isaiah 65:2-4) It is not for those who forsake the LORD, turn to other gods, and choose evil. (Isaiah 65:11-12) It is not for those who put on an outward show of religious observance, but who inwardly go their own way and delight in abominations. (Isaiah 66:3-4) It is not for those who hate and mock the LORD’s people. (Isaiah 66:5) It is not for the LORD’s enemies. (Isaiah 66:6)
Rather, the new creation is for those who humbly seek the LORD. (Isaiah 65:8-10) It is for His servants. (Isaiah 65:13-16) It is for those with a contrite heart, who tremble at the word of the LORD. (Isaiah 66:2)
The LORD is calling, “Here I am, here I am!” (Isaiah 65:1). Are we listening?