“This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, “Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.” ’
“On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves.” Zechariah 8:23, 12:3 NIVUK
“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”Hebrews 4:16 NLT
In an age blighted by anti-semitism, the above verses from Zechariah quietly state God’s blessing and protection for His people. It’s not clear when Zechariah’s prophetic word was going to come to pass, but it will happen! But what is clear is that all peoples, regardless of their origins, their genealogy, will one day recognise that there is a God who is infinitely superior to all other gods, and that they want to be blessed by Him. And they will see that one way to approach Him will be through God’s chosen people, the Jews. In Zechariah 12 we see that God will protect His people. History reveals many attempts to annihilate the Jews, but without success. And often things have not ended well for the persecuting forces or nations.
But there is another way to approach God, and that is through Jesus. Because of His willingness to forgive our confessed sins, there is nothing to impede our proximity to His throne. O how we need His grace and mercy in this sinful world. O how we need to remain close to Him as we traverse the mortal minefields blocking our paths, avoiding the sinful snares that conspire to trap us. Instead we have a gracious God always willing to help us in times of need.
The paths of history crossed at Calvary and one day they will cross again, when God unites His peoples everywhere. Come Lord Jesus!
Being a Pilgrim 