Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations–Zechariah 7:9-10

Posted by Seth on Aug 10, 2009 in Theology |

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations–Zechariah 7:9-10

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Welcome to Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations covering Zechariah 7:9-10 where we are brought back to some of those foundational practices that should characterize our lives in Christian community.

Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another, do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart.”

These words that the LORD delivered through the prophet Jeremiah are not new but we apparently need the repetition. When it comes down to it, we can be God’s very own people and yet do a terrible job exhibiting some of the most foundational aspects of His character. For He is the perfect judge, the most compassionate helper of the weak, and the only One in whom nothing but good resides.

When we look at the period of Israel’s history wherein these commandments are given, we find that they come after a time of blessing. They had been released from Babylonian captivity to come back to Jerusalem, and although there were obstacles to getting reestablished, the greatest thing that stood in the way of their ultimate success in enjoying covenant relationship with the Father was their own sinfulness. They were treating one another harshly and apparently were more interested in personal gain than in loving their neighbors who were most in need. And to top it all off, they were apparently looking for ways to hurt one another.

How often do we, like we find with Israel in this instance, neglect some of the practices most foundational to our loving obedience to the Lord? Do we judge one another behind closed doors instead of fellowshipping together so that we can know how to hold one another accountable? Are we arrogant before each other, aiming at our own exaltation through the tearing down of others instead of patiently bearing with one another as fellow sinners in need of grace? Are we providing for the ones most needful of care who may also be the least like us? And do we ever find ourselves plotting against others, perhaps because we have been wronged and feel entitled to that “sweet” revenge we can all fantasize about?

Lord God, reorient my heart that I might be more like my dear Jesus who died for me when I was Your enemy. Give me a heart more like His. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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