Isaiah 23

Summary Tyre, an island nation, was prolific for its international trade and its navy. They were situated on an island off the coast of the Mediterranean and controlled 2 important harbours. Yet, here we see the common problem of wealthy nations or people - when profits are a priority over people. Isaiah shows again how another god - wealth, consumerism, and production - is weak compared to God. God As long as Tyre prioritises maximising profits and amassing wealth - it will not be as strong as it could be. Isaiah pictures a ship returning from trade to discover the island destroyed. What will it do then? It will be a boat without a place to dock - out at sea with no goal and no hope. Without God, this is what we experience. However, God sees a hope for Tyre. God's hope is for all people and nations. He sees her wealth now being used for good and even building up God's kingdom. The vision for Tyre is not to become nothing, but for Tyre to be part of using their wealth for God. Gospel It is good news that wealth and status are not a priority for Jesus. Jesus chose to have no home, and no wealth himself. When Jesus visited Tyre, a woman came to him seeking the healing of her daughter and had great faith in Jesus (Matthew 15:21-28). Jesus considered Tyre a place where he was better received than in Jerusalem (Matthew 11:20-22). What is interesting is that though they were so wealthy, they could not escape the realities and problems of life. Only in Jesus is there hope for us. Money doesn't satisfy, business comes and goes, and success will not make us happy. Reflection How does following Jesus redefine your relationship with money?