September 11th~By My Spirit

Haggai 2:1-9

Zechariah 1:1-6

Haggai 2:10-19

Ezra 5:2

Haggai 2:20-23

Zechariah 1:7-5:11

Amidst the bustle of Temple reconstruction in Jerusalem, God sent two prophets to encourage the people, Haggai and Zechariah. “Take courage, Zerubbabel,” said Haggai. “Take courage, Jeshua, the High Priest. Take courage all you people still left in the land. Take courage and work, for I am with you, says the Lord Almighty. My Spirit remains among you... so do not be afraid” (2:4, 5). “Zerubbabel and Jeshua responded by beginning the task of rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem, and the prophets of God were with them and helped them” (Ezra 5:2).

After seventy years in captivity, there was a bit of uncertainty whether or not the Lord would bless His people, particularly in regards to the line of kings and priests. God quickly squelched any fears the people might have had. First, He blessed Zerubbabel, a descendant of David and the Governor of Judah. “I will honor you, Zerubbabel, My servant, says the Lord. I will treat you like a signet ring on My finger, for I have specially chosen you” (Haggai 2:23).

In regards to Jeshua the High Priest, Satan quickly tried to discredit him. As Jeshua stood before the Angel of the Lord, “Satan was there at the angel’s right hand, accusing Jeshua of many things. The Lord said to Satan, ‘I reject your accusations. Yes, the Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you...” Jeshua’s clothing was filthy as he stood there, a symbol of his sins. But the Lord responded, “Take off his filthy clothes. I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these new clothes” (Zechariah 3:1-4). In this way, Jeshua was purified and, therefore, he could represent God’s people in the Temple.

Concerning the city of Jerusalem, which lay in ruins, the Lord promised protection. “Come away! Escape to Jerusalem, you who are exiled

in Babylon! Anyone who harms you harms My most precious possession. I will raise My fist and crush him (Zechariah 2:6-9).

Finally, Zechariah was given a brief look at the promised Messiah. “Soon I am going to bring My servant, the Branch... I will remove the sins of this land in a single day” (3:8, 9). The Lord had used the term “My Servant” before, to describe Jesus (Isaiah 42:1-4). He has also been called the Branch before, a righteous king from the line of David (Isaiah 4:2; Jeremiah 23:5). At the cross Jesus would remove the sins of all those people who had trusted in this coming King.

Daily Reflection

On a day like today, when our reading is full of random, seemingly disconnected passages, it can be difficult to see what is there to apply. But, be encouraged. God was faithful to secure for His people an obedient King who would bless the people by his commitment. He was able to purify a righteous priest who would mediate for the people in their iniquity. He was able to provide protection for His holy city even though the walls were in shambles. He even promised to put plans into motion to rebuild those walls, a hint at the ministry of Nehemiah (Zechariah 1:16). Finally, He reminded the people that He still intended to bless them by sending the Messiah to make all things right.

All of these things were brought about because of His mercy. “It is not by force nor by strength,” He said, that the people had somehow made these things happen, “but by My Spirit, says the Lord Almighty” (4:6). “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin” (4:10). The Lord is faithful, who finishes what He started. The same goes for you. “He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).

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