June 28

Introduction

Zechariah 8:1–23: The LORD promises to bring back to Jerusalem the people of Judah who had been scattered to other lands when Judah was defeated by the Babylonians. The people had been punished because they had made the LORD angry, but now the LORD promises to save those who survived the time of punishment and to make them a blessing to the same nations that had cursed them.

Today’s Key Verse: Zechariah 8:22

[The LORD said]: “Many peoples and powerful nations will come to Jerusalem to worship the LORD Almighty and to pray for his blessing.”

Reflect

How is the restored Jerusalem described? Reread verses 16 and 17. What do these verses teach about the justice God requires? How are the people to be a blessing to others? In what ways is your community of faith a blessing to others? In what way can you be a blessing to someone today?

Pray

Holy God, teach me your ways of justice and peace. Revive my soul and help me to do your will. As you have blessed me, may I now share your blessings with others. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Zechariah 9:9–17: A righteous king will come to rule God’s people.