The Jewish people returned from their seventy-year captivity in Babylon before Zechariah’s ministry. Now God promises that His presence will once again be with them. He also promises that His people scattered across the nations will be gathered again to live in the promised land. - P110
In the New Testament, the promised land is sometimes used as a metaphor for heaven. As believers, we can look forward to one day returning to the home we were created for. We should not get comfortable here because this is not our home. - P110
For now, we are in exile, pilgrims putting up tents in a foreign land. But because God always keeps His promises to His people, He will lead us where we will fully enjoy His presence forever.
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Zechariah continues to deliver the Lord‘s message to the people. He tellsthem that, although in the past they fought with their enemies, now Godwill make them a blessing to those around them. But they have some in-structions to follow: they must be truthful, avoid planning evil, and honortheir commitments (vv. 16-17). Then God will make them into a nationthat blesses - P110
16These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts;
17do not plot evil against each other, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this," declares the Lord.
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. Similarly, Jesus unites people from all nations, empoweringthem through the Holy Spirit to bless others. - P110
As Christians, we are calledto pray for our enemies and seek the good of others even when they don‘tseek the same for us. - P110
Only Jesus can truly change the heart of a person sothat they can care for others in such a counter-cultural way. - P110
Heavenly Father, Your Word reminds me that heaven is my true eternal home. Help me to remember this truth when life becomes challenging. While I live on this earth, make me a blessing to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P110
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