The hope of Israel and joy to the World

Read Isaiah 60.

Certainly, the captured and scattered people of Israel were looking forward to better days ahead.  But none of the events of their return under Persian rule, nor any time since, can account for the prophecies in this chapter.  Indeed, the Jews continued to be under someone else's rule until 1948.  And, the promised days of prosperity, world homage, and peace have yet to be fulfilled.

When the Messiah returns and establishes His rule in Jerusalem, here is what the nation of Israel will be like.
1. Worldwide Ministry. (vv.1-3)
"Arise and shine."  Israel will not only embrace Jesus as LORD, but the nation they will reflect His glory to the world.  They will literally be attracting the world to Jesus.

2. Worldwide Honor. (vv.4-13)
"Lift up your eyes."  A new Temple will be erected in Jerusalem.  World leaders will come to serve the interests of Israel.  The world's abundance will flow toward this one small land.  The purpose will be for "the praises of the LORD" (v.6), "to beautify my beautiful house" (v.7 and 13).

3. Worldwide Peace. (vv.14-18)
All Israel's enemies will be coming in great humility and acknowledgement of Messiah's reign over them.  With the Prince of Peace in place, world peace will finally be a reality.  God's purpose is not political but "you shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob" (v.16b).
The entire nation will be right with God and disputes over the land with its Biblical boundaries will no longer be an issue.  Why?  So "that I might be glorified" (v.21).

How soon will this happen?  "I am the LORD, in its time I will hasten it" (v.22b).  The Disciples knew these prophecies and after the resurrection asked Jesus, "'Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?'  He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority."  Then, Jesus ascended to heaven as they watched.  Two angels declared, "This Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven" (Acts 1:6-11).

Today, we look forward to the literal, visible, powerful, personal, and royal return of Christ.