Isaiah 55

Why do we struggle? Isn't it because we fear not having sufficient to survive? Isn't it because there is always something else we want that we feel we must work towards? Why are we motivated by these things? What is it in the human condition that causes us to continue to want more?
Isaiah is describing a world where what is necessary and vital for life is available without work or cost - it is offered freely. This is most often spiritualised in its interpretation - our experience does not allow us to believe other otherwise. The promise is exactly the opposite of the beginning of Genesis, where the human condition is defined by its toil. Here the words speak of a promise that will last forever.
In verse 4 there is a reference to David, a type of Christ, who will realise this promise. These words and their implications are mirrored in Jesus' in the Sermon on the Mount. A promise that is possible to live in this way.
But is all this simply wishful thinking. What is the source of this hope? Is it that God ha changed his mind - that he has seen the struggle of man as he lives out his day to day fight to survive and thrive and does not think that it is working out?
In Christ God offers an alternative to the way of life we have been used to. It allows us to break free from the achievement bound race for worldly success and provides us with a deep peace. This is possible and real even now - but is fragile and requires us to stop and listen and trust.