S(Zechariah 8:2,23) Thus says the Lord of Hosts: "I am jealous for Zion with great jealousy ... In those days, [people from every nation and tongue shall say]: "Let us go with you for we have heard that God is with you."
O
This amazing chapter predicted the healthy church: communities of people who are maturing in Christ. Adults are strong in planting truth and peace; they produce the fruits of God's Spirit (verses 9-19). Children exercise their imaginations, their bodies, and their budding relationship skills through God-ordained activities: free play. They are even safe in the city streets because the elderly are sitting, each one with his or her staff (verses 3-8).
A
This works because each generation does its work: children play, adults produce, and the elderly pray. This scene hinges on whether the elderly are sitting with his or her staff. Having years of experience in exercising godliness, their staffs describe how they--through personal relationship with Jesus, the Word of God, as they weather the challenges of life--have grown to be trustworthy and wise.
P
Good Shepherd, Your Word is like a rod and staff to me. It comforts me. Like an old person's walker, it reliably stabilizes me when I'm unsteady and uncertain. Your Word makes me strong. Like a good staff in a skillful shepherd's hand, it protects me. Like a royal scepter, it authorizes me to make good decisions. Thank You.
No comments:
Post a Comment