December 24

From: December 24, 2014

The vision that God gave the prophet Zechariah has a striking similarity to the one He gave John in the Revelation. Here, the “four spirits” and their chariots are similar to the four horsemen of the apocalypse (Rev. 6). In Zechariah, the four chariots are connected to the four directions of the compass, as God sent them out to “patrol the earth” and administer His justice on the nations. There are many interpretations as to the meaning of these four chariots, yet one thing is clear. They “stand before the Lord” and they go out to “do His work.” God is not a passive observer, nor an absentee landlord of His creation. He is ever-vigilant and active in His sovereignty. And He is not silent. He has revealed His plans to His people. We may not fully understand the details, but we can clearly see the overall arc of the story the Divine Author is writing. One day, the Son of God will judge the living and the dead and all creation will bow to His eternal reign. The rebellion will end and Christ will reign.

From: December 24, 2013

The Lord told the prophet Zechariah to make a crown and set it on the high priest, Joshua’s head, saying the above words concerning the “Branch.” The “Branch” is a clear reference to Messiah (Isaiah 11:1). As is the name “Joshua,” or “Yeshua” the Hebrew equivalent of the name “Jesus.” The phrase “Behold, the man” is a Messianic prophecy that is unconsciously fulfilled in the mouth of Pilate at Christ’s trial (John 19:5). This prophecy is partially fulfilled at Christ’s first advent (coming), but will not be complete until His return. At which time the roles of prophet, priest and king will be united in Him.