While we are observing, with horror, the present violent events in the Middle East, we must remember that worse times are ahead of us. Future events will involve the city of Jerusalem. Prophecy paints a dark picture of indescribable suffering, pain and misery for that city and its inhabitants. At the same time, the bible portrays a bright and peaceful future following the soon-coming desolation of Jerusalem — once the Messiah, Jesus Christ, has returned to the Holy City.
The present and immediate future looks grim, and yet, the true disciples of Christ can already see the joy and hope that is in store for this world and the Middle East. God expects His people to fulfill a mission — to announce and to share the good news of the establishment of the Kingdom of God here on earth. They are to proclaim what is soon coming to pass. Listen to these encouraging words for us today, that can be found in the Scriptures of the prophet Isaiah:
“O Zion, You who bring good tidings, Get up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, You who bring good tidings, Lift up your voice with strength, Lift it up, be not afraid; Say to the cities of Judah, ‘Behold your God!'” (Isaiah 40:9).
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things, Who proclaims salvation, Who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ Your watchmen shall lift up their voices, With their voices they shall sing together; For they shall see eye to eye When the LORD brings back Zion.” (Isaiah 52:7-8).
“I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, And give Him no rest till He establishes And till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth.” (Isaiah 62:6-7).
What a privilege, and what an awesome responsibility it is, to be called by God as one of His watchmen. Let’s all make sure that we are fulfilling our commission and that we are doing what God expects us to do.
