If you are using a Bible that has cross-references you will see how many times Zechariah refers back to the Psalms and the prophets. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he could see how what was happening in his life was part of God’s big story, going right back to the covenant he made with Abraham (Genesis 22:16-18), David, and the prophets (e.g. Jeremiah 23:5-6). He could see what was happening in the light of the whole history of Israel.
Read More judgment, Saviour, Day of the Lord, blessing, messenger
The smooth natural English of the CEV hides a key to understanding this whole passage. If you have another translation or can find it online, it is worth looking at either the ESV or the NIV.
The key word is “day,” which occurs ten times in verses 10-14 in yesterday’s reading, with phrases like “the day of misfortune,” “the day of calamity.”
Read More hope, Day of the Lord, kingdom
Read Reflect Yes, but when is the When coming? We are so much in love with “When,” always curious and anxious about the future, and no less so with the idea of a Jesus who is coming back. We are passionate about time in general and we want to know when Jesus is returning. For […]
Read More judgment, Day of the Lord, peace, second coming, ready
Read Reflect Today you face a choice … Will you seek the Lord, or will you follow the idols of this world? Will you seek righteousness and obey God or will you do your own thing? Will you clothe yourself in humility or will you assert your own self-will and pride? Humbly turn to the […]
Read More mercy, choice, Day of the LordWhen I was a boy in South Africa I was caught in a plague of locusts. It was simultaneously horrifying and awesome. In the distance the swarm looked like a black cloud . As they approached the distinction between the sky and land was gradually blurred out. Before they arrived they sounded like the sea heard at a distance.
Read More judgment, Day of the Lord, prophets, plague