A Longing for Home
Going Deeper: Near the end of a 70-year exile, the Prophet Zechariah recorded this book of stories, dreams, and visions for a weary nation of Israel to challenge them to remain faithful to their Covenant with God and to inspire hope for the future Kingdom of God.
The longing for home is an internal pull, a tug at our hearts with relentless yearning. Home is more than the physicality of a place; it's the embodiment of comfort, familiarity, and a sense of belonging.
Zechariah 14:9 is an answer to this heartfelt yearning. Near the end of Israel’s 70 years in exile, the prophet Zechariah wrote to a weary nation to remind them of God’s goodness, to remain faithful to God, and to inspire hope for the coming Kingdom of God.
Imagine the weariness of a nation estranged from their homeland for 70 long years, facing doubt and uncertainty about their future. Zechariah’s words are not just a historical record; they are a lifeline, reminding a people worn by exile that their journey isn't without purpose or end. His words paint a picture of restoration—a glimpse into a future Kingdom where God's sovereignty reigns supreme.
Today, you may feel distanced from God’s purpose or promises for your life. If you’re longing for the comfort and belonging, Zechariah's encouragement holds true, even today. God's unwavering goodness and faithfulness never cease, and God has promised His followers that He will bring them home one day to a restored kingdom (Revelation 21).
We can trust in a future kingdom to come. Home is not that far off.
“Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not....