Read: Zechariah 3
Here we have
a powerful picture of Joshua the high priest being accused by satan, and then
being cleansed of his sin, symbolized by a change in garments (3:1-4). The high
priest was very important for this recovering Jewish community, and so God was
definitely sending a vital message to His people. First; we don’t see the enemy
show up much in the Old Testament (though he is active behind-the-scenes), so
his noted appearance here should cause us to consider why. Essentially God is
declaring that the presence of sin gives the devil a measure of room in our
lives. He is an accuser of the brethren, and he had something to accuse them
about, as they had persisted in sin. That’s why the exile to Babylon happened
in the first place! This sounds discouraging, but the vision doesn’t end with
the accusation. Far from it!
Second; this
vision highlights that God has AND will continue to do something about the sin
of Israel! Praise Him! Even the presence of a remnant in Jerusalem was meant to
be sign of this truth, as was the providing of new clothes to Joshua. What a
prophetic symbol!
Third; after
this cleansing Joshua is called to live a life devoted to God (3:6-7). This
aspect of the vision is reminding God’s people that forgiveness should lead to a clear commitment IF future blessings
are to be experienced.
Finally; the
angel tells Joshua that this has an incredible application for future
generations. A “branch” (Jesus, from the “tree” of the Jews) will come and He
will deal with all of the sin in the
land. Wow, what a promise! But there’s even more! The result of this work by
the Branch will include the reality of future
unity and fellowship – “in that day each of you will invite his neighbour
to sit under his vine and fig tree.” (3:10) Sin has destroyed many things,
including relationships, and God will bring restoration to these as well. The
impact of His coming will be beyond anything we can imagine!
Prayer and Journaling
1. Is
there any area in your life where you face the accusations of the enemy, where
you feel filthy? Ask the Lord what to do about this – is there confession to do?
Do you simply need to resist the devil? (James 4:8). Ask Jesus to cleanse you!
2. Ask
Jesus to show you some of what He will accomplish with His coming, what He will
change about this world. In response to what He shows you, thank Him.
3. Are
there any relationships that need restoring in your life, to be brought to a
place of peace? (v. 10). Ask God to show you any such relationships, and to
work in them. Also ask Him if there’s anything you need to do to participate in
His Work.
