The Old Testament Book of Micah gives a theological interpretation of large, country-wide events happening in the end of the eight century. From the international situation of a rising aggressive country in Assyria, to emigrants from the north moving into Jerusalem and the fall of a previously powerful country in Samaria, Micah addresses them all through the eyes of a faithful Jewish prophet. The oldest section is the first three chapters with well-known judgement oracles, yet the book closes with hope.

Micah 4:1-4

“In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, ²and many nations shall come and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. ³He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more; ⁴but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees, and no one shall make them afraid; for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.”

Prayer

Redeeming Sustainer, as we all hope and pray for that glorious day of our homecoming to you, we pray you will continue to make us willing and joyful learners of your way. Practitioners of Christ’s holy tasks to care for peoples, now and till that triumphant day, Amen.