Isaiah 2:4 He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.
Oh, what a day that will be! Peace … to such a degree that we stop manufacturing weapons! It’s hard to remotely imagine such a day. And yet, Isaiah is telling his readers just that. From what I’ve read about Isaiah, this portion of his writings are often interpreted as being fulfilled in the “last days” of the earth. So, while our key verses are open to much theological interpretation, I’d like to focus on them in a simple “life application” kind of way.
Reading Isaiah 2:1-5 brought to mind the scripture from Ecclesiastes 3. The author of Ecclesiastes tells us that there is a time for everything under the sun, including a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time for war and a time for peace. Chapter 3 of Ecclesiastes reminds me that life never stays the same, and that different events require different responses. Are you turning your proverbial sword into a plowshare and entering a time of personal peace? Or, are you entering a time when you are girding your strength for a long fight ahead of you?
Right now in my family, we are girding ourselves for a continued war against Parkinson’s Disease. My siblings and I are bracing ourselves for difficult days to come, anticipating the time and emotional energy required to love on both of our parents. While my father struggles with the effects of the disease, it takes a toll on my mother as she tries to be ever present for the love of her life. As their children, we have become enmeshed in the care of both. Time becomes extra precious, and breakthrough moments are treasured.
If you are in a season of peace and tranquility, enjoy the respite! Bask in the light as you walk within the blessings of the Lord. He has given you this moment of peace, this perfect balance in life, even if just for a time. Guard it for the precious season that it is! If, however, you are in a season of personal war, hold tight to our Lord. Pray, allow yourself to be nurtured by others, and seek moments of tranquility where you can find them. Always remember that God is with us through it ALL – in every season.
Blessings,
Diana
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