As we endure lockdown, consider what lies ahead-
“Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore.
Isaiah 65:17
The current crisis helps us see the value of moving on from our current realities to something far better.
Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. Her people will be a source of joy.
Isaiah 65:18
We are driving our current earth to destruction. We will be so grateful to start again. Our current cities destroy the soul. The Jerusalem Jesus creates will be a place of happiness. His people will be joyful in fruitful lives.
I will rejoice over Jerusalem and delight in my people. And the sound of weeping and crying will be heard in it no more.
Isaiah 65:19
Consider a time when, being with Jesus, we will be spared from grief.
In those days people will live in the houses they build and eat the fruit of their own vineyards.
Isaiah 65:21
We can look forward to a time of creativity and rewarding work. Consider how much easier life could be without protecting the fruit of our labour from those who would steal and kill and destroy. Looking at what we have to endure, consider how much easier and more joyful life would be if everyone knew that everyone else would do what was loving and kind?
That is what we have to look forward to!