Isaiah 22

Summary Isaiah now looks to his own city. They are no different to the other nations described so far. Though they were called to be a light, they have become focused on themselves. Assyria's coming will bring heartache and destruction. At a time when Jerusalem should be seeking the Lord, they are instead acting spiritually immature. What is true of the city, is true of individuals. The second half of the chapter details an immature leader more interested in his own wealth and status than the King's. Isaiah warns that his job will be taken from him and given to another named Eliakim. God God wants real, heart-level commitment. Jerusalem spent more time focused on building up fortifications, armies, and weaponry. Shebna, a leader in Israel, is a big reason for this. Isaiah is in tears as he writes this chapter. God wanted Israel to be so much more. God longs for repentance and change, but Jerusalem is only thinking about Jerusalem. They have an excuse - "tomorrow we die" so why bother taking God seriously? So they begin to feast and drink. The sin that can't be forgiven is the sin you are unwilling to give to God. Repentance is not about being miserable, it's about being self-aware. Do I take seriously God's word? I'm not talking about being miserable and joyless. That's not Isaiah' point. What I'm talking about is commitment, earnestness, sincerity. We can take things seriously while still being joyful. Gospel Jesus encountered a similar experience with Jerusalem when he stood on the Mount of Olives. We see him weeping over her, longing for her change. Jesus encounters similar stubbornness when he comes to Jerusalem. He longs for their transformation and their welcome of him - but they fight him, argue with him, and reject him over and over again. They nail and crucify him to the cross. Yet human failure does not determine God's plan. That's a theme Isaiah returns to repeatedly. In the book of Revelation, Jesus has the keys to the house of David. He takes control, and he is worthy of doing that. He has not become proud or self-focused. Jesus deserves to take control and have the highest position. Reflection What does it look like for you to make a heart commitment to Jesus today?