Zechariah 1:1-3 - “In the eighth month, in the second year of Darius, came the word of the LORD unto Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo the prophet, saying,

The LORD hath been sore displeased with your fathers.

Therefore say thou unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Turn ye unto me, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts.”

Throughout history, God has sent messages to His people through His prophets. These messengers conveyed God's word to kings, priests, and the general public, warning them about the consequences of sin and urging them to turn towards God.

However, despite the warnings, the Jews often didn't heed the prophets' advice, resulting in God exiling them to foreign lands. After 70 long years of exile, the Jews were finally allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple of the Lord.

Although the city was in ruins and the royal family was reduced to governor status, the Jews were given a new opportunity to pay attention to God's word. Zechariah, a new prophet, was sent by God to guide and encourage the people to rebuild their city, their lives, and their relationship with God.

Zechariah affirms the governor and priest of that time, as stated in the book of Zechariah, chapter 3, verse 4. He also rebukes the foolish leaders among them, as mentioned in chapter 11 of the book.

Zechariah calls upon the people to follow God and remember the words of the prophets before him. However, the most significant part of his message is his prophecy of complete restoration for God and His people. According to him, the temple will be rebuilt, Israel will be purified, and the enemies will be defeated. Notably, the Lord Himself will dwell in Jerusalem.

It is essential to note that this restoration is not limited to the Jews only. According to Zechariah's prophecy, the Lord will rule over the whole earth, and all the nations will worship Him.

Zechariah's message is not only of hope and restoration for His people during that time but also for all believers in the present and the future.

The message that lies ahead of us is that soon, through a just judgment that will come upon the enemies of God, people from all corners of the world will be gathered to form a community of believers—all made possible through the work of a righteous priest-king, the Lord Jesus Christ.

This future kingdom will be a testament to the power of God's love and mercy, and it will be a great blessing for all those who put their faith in him.

Our Prayer for today:

We thank You, Heavenly Father, for the assurance You have given through Your prophets of our hope in Christ Jesus. We greatly anticipate His reign where righteousness prevails, and there will be peace on earth. Help us to share this hope with others and experience the blessedness of Your presence. In Christ’s name. Amen!