August 22, 2024 - Zechariah 8-14

The Lord:  “I scattered them with a whirlwind among all nations that they had not known” (7:14).  But, also:  “I am jealous for Zion with great jealousy . . . I have returned to Zion  and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem, and Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, the holy mountain” (8:2,3).

Ultimately, Israel’s hope and salvation will be found in her eternal King:  “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!  Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem!  Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (9:9).  “On that day the Lord their God will save them, as the flock of his people” (9:16).  “On that day there shall be a fountain opened for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and uncleanness” (13:1).

How many times over the years have I typed something similar to “Ultimately, Israel’s hope and salvation will be found in her eternal King?”  I mean, how many times!?  I’m thinking about these promises to Israel and to us, this morning, and I can almost get giddy with joy and hope.

Hallelujah we sing, To our Father and King,

And His rapturous praises repeat,

To the Lamb that was slain, Hallelujah again,

Sing all heaven, and fall at his feet!   --Charles Wesley (1788)