Zechariah 8

Scripture Reading:  Read Zechariah Chapter 8. 

A Desire to Bless:

Zechariah 8:6 – “This is what the Lord Almighty says: “It may seem marvelous to the remnant of this people at that time, but will it seem marvelous to me?” declares the Lord Almighty.” (NIV)

I enjoy many things in life, but I’ve discovered that one of the most enjoyable is blessing my wife and children. When you get to serve your family or the people closest to you, there is a unique joy in that gift of blessing your loved ones. 

Most of this chapter is a compelling description of God’s fervent desire to restore this remnant of His people.  What seems impossible in their eyes is easily accomplished in God’s power.  As you read this chapter, you cannot help but be moved by the Lord’s intense passion as He speaks of restoring and redeeming His people.  This passage will find ultimate fulfillment when the Lord Jesus returns and brings eternal blessing and peace. 

Today, I am in awe of God’s desire to bless and redeem.  There is a call to action here for us, a call to do what is right, to leave behind our old ways of scheming evil.  We must understand that call to action through the lens of the first half of this chapter.  God’s desire for me to do what is right isn’t a cold standard. It’s a warm, loving desire, much like my desire for my children to do what is right. It's a desire driven by love, a love that comforts us in our faith. 

Prayer:  Lord, thank you for loving your people and blessing us with your goodness. Though much of this passage describes a blessing yet to come, may we live in the blessings of your kingdom that are already here and now.  Amen.