Read Zechariah 8
Highlights:
Jehovah's purpose for restoring Jerusalem; Christ presented as King-Savior; dispersion and regathering; return of Christ; Kingdom established.
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass (Zech. 9:9).
Zechariah's prophetic message was far more than words of comfort and encouragement to the returned exiles. It was a message of hope, foretelling the coming King of kings when many nations shall be joined to the Lord (2:11).
This prophecy was fulfilled in part when Jesus entered Jerusalem, riding upon an ass (Matt. 21:2-5). This was His formal presentation as King.
But the cry, Hosanna (21:9) was soon changed to: Crucify Him! The King was rejected and betrayed for only thirty pieces of silver (26:15; compare Zech 11:12; also compare Matt. 27:3-5; Zech. 11:13). But it was only through the death of the Messiah that people could be cleansed of sin as silver is refined (13:9).
But Zechariah also foretold of a time when the King shall return and His will shall be done in earth, as it is in heaven (Matt. 6:10). All evil will be removed, and His people shall reign with Him. And the Lord shall be King over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and His Name one, and a spirit of HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD will prevail (Zech. 14:9,20).
We have the wonderful privilege of living after the fulfillment of our Lord's earthly ministry and in the expectation of His soon return. It is truly an honor to live a life of service to God. We are fulfilling the work that was started by Jesus Christ Himself. He is the one who began the work of the New Testament Church through His disciples. The apostles whom He had chosen . . . began to speak . . . And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 1:2 — 2:47). We should feel privileged that we are called by God to the office of kingdom building. We are truly the hands, feet and mouthpiece of God. God has set each one in their proper place. And God hath set some in the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues (I Cor. 12:28).
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also (John 14:3).
Thought for Today:
If the Lord were to come today, would you rejoice to see Him face to face?
Christ Revealed:
As King and as a Servant sold for thirty pieces of silver (Zech. 9:9; 11:12). They covenanted with him (Judas) for thirty pieces of silver (Matt. 26:15).
Word Studies:
8:2 was jealous . . . with great jealousy, loved with great protective love; 10:3 goats, civic and political leaders; 10:8 hiss, signal; 11:7 Beauty, and . . . Bands, two shepherd's staffs; 14:9 His Name One, Jesus will be recognized and reign as God with no rival false god.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Official: Sen. Bill Nelson (FL) • Country: United States (270 million) in North America • Major languages: English and Spanish • Religious freedom • 55% Protestant; 28% Catholic; 1% Orthodox; 2% Mormon; 2% Jewish; 1% Muslim; 11% Other/None • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the God of heaven; His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever (Ps. 136:26).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 1:12