Judgment and destruction dominated the previous chapter, but judgment and destruction are never God’s intended last words. Instead, He desires for us to experience forgiveness and salvation. This is evident in Isaiah 25, as a world of lost people are invited to a joyful feast, where the host is the LORD. A personal song of praise is lifted to the LORD for the wonderful things He has done to display His trustworthy character. It sounds like the worship of a devoted Israelite, grateful for God’s protection against the wicked (v 1-2). But then there is a surprise. The guests at this feast include some from those very nations which had ruthlessly oppressed God’s people! They too are giving glory and honor to the LORD. Redemption and deliverance are not for Israel alone, but for all peoples who turn to the LORD in humble faith (v 3). Yes, all who are “poor” and “needy” are promised help from a merciful and gracious God. In the searing heat of a Middle Eastern summer, the shelter provided by a shadow can be a lifesaver. But as Jonah discovered, such protection may be short-lived! In the LORD however, we find permanent security and dependable relief from every storm—particularly the storm of His final judgment. On that day, our only shelter of protection will be in Jesus Christ, who took God’s wrath upon Himself, as our substitute (v 4-5). God does not delight in wrath. Through Christ, He has provided hope for “all peoples… all nations,” inviting them to feast on the richness of His salvation. Often a king would hold a great banquet when he wished to make a special announcement. Here, while serving His guests the finest of foods, the Host announces the best news anyone has ever heard: death will be defeated! Since Adam and Eve, death has been the great enemy, an inescapable monster who swallows up all its victims. But Isaiah foresees the day when the monster itself will be swallowed up! Because of Jesus’ resurrection, the shroud of death will be permanently removed for every believer, tears of grief compassionately wiped away. All the results of the curse will be obliterated forever. Our Savior has triumphed on our behalf! (v 6-8). Together the people of God declare their joyous relief, having waited for the fullness of their salvation in Christ (v 9). But “Moab,” representing the world of unbelievers who proudly refuse Christ, will be brought down “to the dust.” They will try to swim their way out of the manure pile they have made of their lives, but there they will stay forever. Judgment and destruction are not God’s intended last words, but we do have the choice of making them His last words in our lives (v 10-12). For further meditation: