But first the chapter describes the lament of the LORD, “all the day my name is despised” [ch. 52 v.5] followed by the declaration, “Therefore in that day they shall know that it is I who speak” [v.6] – then we read prophetic words that obviously apply to the transformation of life “in that day” after the dramas at the return of Christ.

Verse 7 tells us, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’ “

Jesus will reign for God, “but then comes the end” writes Paul, “when he delivers the kingdom to God … then the Son himself will be subjected to him … that God may be all in all.” [1 Cor.15 v. 24-28]. In Revelation 21 we read John’s vision of the ultimate time when “the dwelling place of God is with man … God himself will be with them as their God … for the former things have passed away.” [v.3,4] The “good news of happiness” will at last be here – for those who have been longing for God’s kingdom.

Returning to Isaiah’s chapter, see the nature of the happiness that is to happen. They “sing for joy (they) break forth together into singing … for the LORD has comforted his people; he has redeemed Jerusalem. The LORD has bared his holy arm (Christ) before the eyes of all nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.” [v.9,10] Let us take God’s words into our hearts.

Finally, note how the next chapter starts, “Who has believed what they heard from us?” Well, who has? We prove what we believe by the reality of the faith we have in our hearts and how, as a result, we eagerly anticipate, the “good news of happiness.”