Did you know that the Bible begins and ends with references to light? Light was the first thing God created (Gen. 1:3). In Revelation 22:5, we learn that when we are reunited with Jesus all traces of darkness will finally be gone: “There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light.”

In the Bible, light is a representation of God’s presence and glory (2 Chron. 5:13–14; Ex. 34:29). Light stands for goodness and holiness as opposed to evil (John 3:20). Light is truth as opposed to the darkness of falsehood (Ps. 19:8; 119:105). Light is a symbol of God’s favor and blessing (Prov. 4:18; Num. 6:24–26).

Today’s passage, Isaiah 60:1–22, looks forward to the redemption of Israel: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you” (v. 1). During the millennial kingdom, Israel will recognize the Messiah and the nations will stream to Zion to know the Lord (v. 3). In this time, God is described as light, “the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end” (v. 20).

The hope that Isaiah 60 describes is for Israel and the nations to be in the “everlasting light” of the Lord (v. 20). This means they will be in the very presence of God and fully experience His glory. At that time, evil will be abolished and defeated (v. 21). Throughout this passage and elsewhere through Scripture, light is used as a symbol of God’s blessing and favor. We look forward to this time when God’s everlasting light will abolish darkness for good!

>> Can you imagine living in God’s presence away from the effects of sin? Can you imagine a world where truth wins? No more darkness. No more sorrow! One day all people will submit to the Lord Jesus. That is our future hope.

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