1 This is what Isaiah, Amoz’s son, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.
2 In the days to come
the mountain of the Lord’s house
will be the highest of the mountains.
It will be lifted above the hills;
peoples will stream to it.
3 Many nations will go and say,
“Come, let’s go up to the Lord’s mountain,
to the house of Jacob’s God
so that he may teach us his ways
and we may walk in God’s paths.”
Instruction will come from Zion;
the Lord’s word from Jerusalem.
4 God will judge between the nations,
and settle disputes of mighty nations.
Then they will beat their swords into iron plows
and their spears into pruning tools.
Nation will not take up sword against nation;
they will no longer learn how to make war.
5 Come, house of Jacob,
let’s walk by the Lord’s light.
A voice crying out in the wilderness:
“Prepare the way for the Lord;
make his paths straight.
5 Every valley will be filled,
and every mountain and hill will be leveled.
The crooked will be made straight
and the rough places made smooth.
6 All humanity will see God’s salvation.”
Reflection
Can you imagine such a peaceful sight as that envisioned by Isaiah? Those of Judeo-Christian heritage may be familiar with this passage and vision from Isaiah, but we tend to think of it as a quaint idea rather than a real possibility. It’s more than that for me and for many who believe “If you can dream it, you can achieve it.” I spent time in Arizona studying to be a life purpose coach and this was a constant mantra.
Our ideas and visions are given to us by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit encouraging us to be partners in creating a better world for all of creation. Every inventor, entrepreneur, and person who believes this world can be improved has heard the voice of the Spirit saying, “You can do this. Let’s walk by the Lord’s light.”
At the 11:00 service on Christmas Eve, the MUMC Youth Choir and alumni gather to sing “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” It’s a beautiful tradition and one that carries with it the promise of the newborn Christ child coming into the world proclaiming, “You can do this. Let’s walk by the Lord’s light.”
By Kathleen Stolz
For Pondering & Prayer
What dream or vision have you had for yourself that has been achieved? Think about the unlikely or inexplicable chain of events that brought it to fruition. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving.
Take a walk outside and observe the marvelous mystery of nature. That same mysterious Creator is weaving through your life, with visions and dreams for your future. From my experience, things may not unfold exactly like your dream so allow for the work of the Holy Spirit and keep praying. What new vision, or renewed dream do want to offer to God in prayer this day?
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