GOD’S HIGHWAY OF PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Over 2800 years ago, Isaiah the prophet predicted that a highway of peace would be built from Egypt through Jerusalem to Assyria (modern Iraq). The sons of Abraham, Isaac and Ishmael, will walk together in peace and in harmony, and they will share the same highway. God’s roadmap for peace has already been established by one of the greatest prophets in the Hebrew Bible, Isaiah.
In this day of terrorism, when the security of nations, families and individuals faces the greatest threat of the ages, we need to look to the sovereign of the universe. As individuals when faced with personal problems that threaten to overwhelm us, our focus must be on the goals of the future. The solution is to keep the eternal viewpoint in perspective. Hope will keep a person and a nation going ahead in the face of great odds and will assure final victory.
The word highway appears seven times in Isaiah and is the Hebrew word mesillaw. It means a thoroughfare, turnpike, thus a highway in our understanding. In Isaiah 11:16 this highway prepared by God will be a pathway from Assyria (modern Iraq) to Israel and, of course, to Jerusalem where Messiah will be reigning on the throne of David over the whole earth. Zechariah 14:9 makes it very clear, “and the Lord shall be King over all the earth, in that day shall there be one Lord and his name one.” Again in Isaiah 19:22-25, we see a highway out of Egypt going through Israel and reaching again to Assyria (modern Iraq). The God of the universe is seen as judging Egypt, but note carefully that He is also seen as healing and restoring Egypt and Assyria (modern Iraq).
Clearly, God’s roadmap for peace in the Middle East is healing and restoring the friendship and fellowship of all the offspring of the brothers, Isaac and Ishmael. To look at the hate and acts of violence in the Middle East reminds us that it will take an act of God to accomplish this. Should we be discouraged and quit trying to lay the groundwork for this ultimate Middle East peace? Of course not, for we are taught in the Hebrew Bible: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” Matthew 5:9.
In Isaiah 35:8, we again see this highway prepared by God for His redeemed people. It is called the “way of holiness,” and the King will ensure its safety and security. It will be well marked, and no travelers will be in danger of getting lost. The weeping of today will be replaced with joy and singing as people make their way to worship the King of the universe. The words safety and security will be the key to peace and happiness to all who travel the highway of holiness. From Isaiah 62:10, it would seem there will be a grand opening and ribbon cutting when the highway is completed and banners lifted up to signal its opening.
Isaiah is quoted more than any of the prophets, and perhaps it is time we all listen to what he had to say. His prophecy of future blessings is greatly needed in our day, and I urge you to take time to study the last 27 chapters of Isaiah to learn of God’s plan for the future. I know that some of you will try to spiritualize all that Isaiah has said while others will try to discredit Isaiah as a prophet. God has spoken through His prophet, and it is time to listen as the end of the age is fast approaching. I hope you will not be left behind.