Read Zechariah 11:1-3
Chapter 11 is going to speak to the judgment of God promised against the faithless shepherds earlier in the book. These short verses do not paint a very pleasant picture to be sure but will set the tone for what is to come.
Did you know that the majestic cedars of Lebanon, the oaks of Bashan, and the thick forests are all prophetic symbols of pride? Keeping that in mind, this reading makes a lot more sense and may even speak to us today. That is, if pride is one of those sins that infect your life.
We have a very dark prophecy of the fate of unfaithful leadership in Judah. Not all of the leaders are corrupt and full of pride, forgetting about God. But those who have turned away will be dealt with in a severe manner.
Another thought about our reading is that it represents God cleaning house, making room for those who do follow him. The description of destruction may be just that. If other prophecies we’ve read speak to God’s people all returning “home,” then it’s possible that more space will be needed.
I picture trees and brush being removed by big machinery to make room for a new subdivision. Here in Mexico, there are many vacant, extremely overgrown lots in town. When the owner decides to build, it can take days of hard work to remove the jungle-like mess. Sinfulness can choke us and deprive us of our happiness.
Still another meaning of this text could be the destruction of the temple, just like Jesus predicted. This second temple was built with the cedars of Lebanon. If not just the temple, then the whole city of Jerusalem or land of Judah could be the reference.
In any case, this is an oracle of doom designed to take down the unfaithful, whoever and whenever. I feel like it’s my duty to bring the Good News of Jesus’ love and redemption. It’s up to us to make sure everyone gets the message. Their unfaithfulness will not end well. There is a much better way. Jesus is the way.
Let’s pray. Lord, empower me to be more on guard for the unfaithfulness of this world. Help me to stand strong against it, lest I fall into the trap of sin. I want to keep my eyes firmly focused on you and your desire for my life. Use me Lord, to help others understand you are the only way to true happiness and fulfillment. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
