Read Zechariah 9:1-8
You probably noticed the style change in today’s reading. The remainder of the book of Zechariah is regarded by Bible scholars as “separate works.” While hard to pinpoint exactly, it’s likely these messages from God came after the temple was completed from prophets who were not necessarily returnees from exile.
This reading tells how God is going to level the playing field and destroy Israel’s oppressors. Foreign nations would likely try and revolt against Israel again, sensing Israel’s potential weakness. We know God allowed the punishment his people endured in exile. But those days were past. As God said, “I am watching closely to ensure that no more foreign oppressors overrun my people’s land.”
We can probably all identify with the desire to feel safe and secure. I can remember a day when we didn’t lock our doors. Neighbors would just walk right in, and we didn’t think a thing of it. Can you imagine that today? I’ve seen people with more locks on their doors than Fort Knox! (Now I’m sounding like my almost 90-year-old dad!)
Where do you turn when you are feeling insecure? Do you run into Jesus’ outstretched arms? The world may be crumbling around us, but our future is secure when we place our trust in Jesus. Our prophecy today gives us the assurance that God isn’t going to allow us to be destroyed.
Jesus also promised in John 10:28: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me.” What an image! Jesus is clutching on to us so that the evil one can’t take us away.
While these prophetic words may seem harsh, they reveal God’s heart and intention to protect his people. Struggles will come, but we are never alone. How does that make you feel?
God is the Divine Warrior looking out for us. This passage suggests that even those oppressors will see the light and turn to God. We know God is not only the supreme power of this world, but the supreme lover. Evil is not going to go away on its own, so God’s power will rise up to annihilate any who don’t turn to him. That will be something to behold, don’t you agree? We don’t need to ever worry or feel unsafe.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for protecting me each day. I don’t know where I’d be without you. I love seeing how your promises even include the outsiders who turn to you. Help me be welcoming to those who are finding your truth for the first time. Your word is a precious gift to treasure. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
