The delay in the revelation of God’s victorious kingdom concerns God’s people, but God still expects them to live in accordance with his rule by practicing justice, righteousness, love, and peace. The word of the Lord (59:21) will be fulfilled. The revelation of God extends his glory and light—characteristics of the Lord himself—to his people (60:1–9). Glory and light will surround them, enabling the nations to see God through restored Israel. The repetition of the words “light,” “brightness,” “shining,” and “glory” creates a poetic effect.

The light in combination with “thick darkness” sets the background of a theophany. The response of the nations will be twofold. First, they will desire inclusion in the new era that will dawn on Zion (60:3). Second, they…