As Isaiah envisions the glorious days of the Messiah, he writes of a highway, a road called “the Highway of Holiness” which leads travelers on the true way home to God. He says that even if they are fools they will not go astray.
Certainly, the day is here in which that Highway has been constructed which runs through the cross of Jesus Christ and leads to an eternal home. We must exercise caution, however, in thinking that this “highway” is like our interstate highway system or, even worse, like the autobahn in Germany. When we set out on this Highway of Holiness, we do not set the cruise control, adjust the climate setting, put in our favorite CD’s and sit back for a nice smooth ride to the Promised Land. In fact, we’re not riding at all - we’re walking! (Ephesians 5:2, 8, 15; et al).
Staying on the highway will keep us from going astray, but no easy trip is guaranteed. In fact, Paul says “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). Sometimes the road is smooth, and the travel is exhilarating. Sometimes there are places with bumps and holes; often many bumps and holes. At times, huge bumps and holes! There are washouts in the road, and in some places it is not paved. Gravel. Then dirt. A narrow winding path. We wonder if we are still on the “highway” at all!
And the storms can descend unexpectedly with howling fury. Driving rains make for difficult seeing and arduous slopping through mud. Then freezing rain with treacherous icy footing. Then the snow - beautiful but often deadly to the traveler.
But the pilgrim presses on for his heart if set on a sure rest and warm welcome a the end of the journey. His Lord has told him it is so. And so the weariness and the struggle of the journey pales in comparison to the anticipated glow of the light in the window of the Father’s house (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).
Aren’t you glad it is so?!!