• Why Arise and Shine?
It is of the Lord (Is. 60:2; Ezk. 12:25)
The Lord is the Light (Is. 60: 1, 3; Jn. 8:12; 9:5; Mt. 5:14)
It is a sign of Life (Is. 60: 6-7; Ps. 150:6)
• How to Arise and Shine
Connect with Christ ( Jn. 1: 4, 9, 8:12, 9:5, 12:46, Nu.6:25, Ps. 67:1, Mt. 5:14)
word ( Jer. 15:16; Ps. 119:130; 2Cor 4:4,6)
Commit to God’s Work (Mt. 5:16; Dan 12:3)
Cultivate Righteous Living (Mt. M13:43, Pro. 4:18)
Call forth God’s Promises (Job. 22:28, Rm. 4:17)
Both the words ARISE and SHINE in Isaiah 60:1 are indicative of a change. The good news is that the change is a positive one. They both connote improved standard of life.
The book of Isaiah is full of prophecies given by Isaiah as received from God. Many of Isaiah’s prophecies given in earlier chapters were unpalatable to the Israelites as these described the imminent wrath, judgment and punishment of God that would come on the people as a result of their disobedience to God, His laws and their general decadence. In particular, there were prophecies about various woes upon the unfaithful Israel
Against these backdrop of downcast, dejected and depressive status of Zion, Isaiah also pronounced many blessings that would accrue to those that have contrite and repentant heart and humble spirit who would be obedient to the Lord of Light and follow His statues.
Some of such pronouncements and promises of blessings, which would make the people to “arise and shine” are spelt out in Chapter 60 of Isaiah. The implication is that no matter how negative your past or present status may be, God can make you arise and shine
