Here is the man whose name is the Branch…. It is he who will build the temple of the LORD, and he will be clothed with majesty and will sit and rule on his throne. And he will be a priest on his throne.
Zechariah 6:12-13, NIV*
The prophet is told to have a crown made for Joshua the priest, and to say these words. And the crown is to be kept in the temple “as a memorial” (v.14)
I’m caught by this declaration and “memorial”. The people are to act in the present, but as a sign of expectation of a future event. They expect to see God act, and this is their sign of hope, their demonstration of faith. They have confidence in God’s plan.
Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophecy, the Branch who is building a temple of living stones, His followers.
We can be confident that God will act. The hard part is, there’s usually no guarantee how. Will He heal, or instead sustain grieving loved ones? Will He topple a corrupt regime, or strengthen the suffering? Provide a job, or give humility to visit the food bank?
I praise You, God, that You will display Your glory–Your character–for all to see. Don’t let us miss it because we’re looking for an answer You chose not to give. We may not understand You, but we can trust You.
Our song this week is Matt Redman‘s “You Never Let Go.”
*New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.