If the prophet’s first vision was of Judah’s present sinful condition (chapter 1), his second vision is of impending judgment. But before introducing that day of terror, Isaiah 2 begins with a brief, spectacular view of Judah’s glorious future. Judah was meant to bring God’s light to the whole world, but they had failed miserably in their divine mission. Rather than displaying the beauty of God’s law and love, they were often indistinguishable from the other nations. But in “the latter days,” all nations will find their joy in Jerusalem, at “the mountain of the house of the LORD.” Isaiah is looking ahead to the eternal kingdom of Jesus, whose universal reign will bring lasting peace and justice, something human politics could never achieve. In one sense, the vision is exclusive, for it highlights the supremacy of Israel’s God. He is no local deity, but God of the whole earth. In another sense, the vision is inclusive, as it foresees both Jews and Gentiles coming to the LORD, eager to know His Word (v 1-4). While we await the ultimate fulfillment of these promises, even now we are called to live as God’s new community of peace in the eyes of the watching world (v 5). This is no easy assignment however, for in the present day we are constantly confronted by the false promises of this world’s idols. Scanning contemporary Judah, the prophet can see nothing that would attract unbelievers to their God. In fact, they had imported into their own midst the idols of the nations! Their hearts had become captivated by religious superstitions, fortune telling, and materialism. Their wealth had made them unbearably arrogant; God’s patience was nearly exhausted. But when His judgment falls, all human pride will be brought low, “and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day” (v 6-11). History is marching forward to an appointed end, guided by the hand of Almighty God. Those who walk closely with Him will always be conscious of the fact that time is short and the end is near. God has scheduled a day when His Son will judge the world in righteousness. While those who are in Christ will be saved, those who are not right with God will be eternally lost. Idols that seem so impressive now will then be exposed as contemptible. Selfish treasures of today will be discarded as worthless trash when Christ returns. In “the splendor of His majesty,” people will not only be humbled, they will be shaken and terrified, with no place to hide. No wonder the chapter ends with a plea to “stop regarding man… for of what account is he?” Let us stop being seduced by the world’s promises or intimidated by its threats. And let us start living in the fear of God as we gladly await His new world (v 12-22). For further meditation: For further meditation: