Daily Bible Reading - August 2020 God's Life-Giving Word of Forgiveness and MercySample

  

August 25

Introduction

Zechariah’s prophecies are dated at various times from the years 520 to 518 B.C. They are largely in the form of visions and deal with the restoration of Jerusalem, the rebuilding of the Temple, the purification of God’s people, and the messianic age to come. Today’s reading opens with a call for the people to return to the LORD and is followed by a description of Zechariah’s first vision (there are eight in all and recorded in chapters 1—6).

Scripture Reading 

Zechariah 1:1-17

Today’s Key Verse: Zechariah 1:3

[The LORD said:] “…now I say to you, ‘Return to me, and I will return to you.’ ”

Reflect

The first vision is of horses and riders sent to inspect the earth. What did the riders observe? The seventy years (verse 12) is a round number that refers to 586-520 B.C., a time known as the exile in Babylonia. The exile ended in 538 B.C., and many of the people returned home to Judah but did not follow through on their promise to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. In 520 B.C. Zechariah joined the prophet Haggai in encouraging the people of Jerusalem to complete the work of rebuilding the Temple. Reread verses 13-17. What does the LORD promise? 

Pray

All-Powerful God, you comfort us with your love and concern. When we stray, in your mercy you call us to return to you. Teach me your ways, O God, that I may learn to serve you with an obedient heart. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those seeking to repent and return to the Lord.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Zechariah 1:18—2:13: Zechariah describes his second and third visions.