The prophetic is about words and pictures.
This is certainly illustrated in the writings Zechariah leaves behind following his encounters with God and His angels.
As the people look to settle back in Jerusalem after the exile, it is understandable that there may be some hesitation and concern for the returning people. Although they are coming back home, it is not the same as it was before and they are certainly not returning to a scenario that could see them regain any of their former glories quickly. That kind of setting might be a sobering and sombre affair.
This is why it’s good to get a vision of the covenant-keeping God ever desirous to look out for His people.
Then the angel said to me, “Shout this message for all to hear: ‘This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: My love for Jerusalem and Mount Zion is passionate and strong. But I am very angry with the other nations that are now enjoying peace and security. I was only a little angry with my people, but the nations inflicted harm on them far beyond my intentions.
“‘Therefore, this is what the Lord says: I have returned to show mercy to Jerusalem. My Temple will be rebuilt, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, and measurements will be taken for the reconstruction of Jerusalem.’
“Say this also: ‘This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: The towns of Israel will again overflow with prosperity, and the Lord will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem as his own.’” (Zechariah 1:14-17)
To have an encouraging word like that from the Lord as you embark on the process of rebuilding – that’s got to be a great comfort and foundation to continue the work. It reinforces the nature of the relationship over the years past and it makes the hearers aware that He’s knowledgeable of what’s going on in the present and He has it in hand.
That’s even topped off with a great rousing encouraging sound of what awaits God’s people if they remain faithful.
The Lord says, “Shout and rejoice, O beautiful Jerusalem, for I am coming to live among you. Many nations will join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they, too, will be my people. I will live among you, and you will know that the Lord of Heaven’s Armies sent me to you. The land of Judah will be the Lord’s special possession in the holy land, and he will once again choose Jerusalem to be his own city. Be silent before the Lord, all humanity, for he is springing into action from his holy dwelling.” (Zechariah 2:10-13 NLT)
The scene of desolation that might have taken place in the rebuilding process with those who oppose them lurking to seek their downfall. Resources restricted and the sense that their place in the world is diminished. In the middle of that, the God who restored you speaks a word like that.
It’s one thing to be about the rebuilding process, it’s another thing to know that the prosperity of the people will come with the promised presence of the Lord. It motivates, it inspires, it stirs hope.
It’s what comes when the Lord who springs into action.
(Photo by Kid Circus on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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