Zechariah’s First Vision
Therefore thus says the Lord, “I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; My house will be built in it,” declares the Lord of hosts… Zech 1:16
The watchmen went out and patrolled the earth bringing back the report that all was quiet and peaceful. The words don’t accurately represent to true nature of things. It wasn’t a good situation, it was one of complacency. The Jews who had been in exile in Babylon were beat down and subdued, therefore they were quiet. They had given up. The garments of reproach that had become so familiar in Babylon had to be removed so they could complete their assignment. The watchmen had gotten used to this and seemed to think it was normal.
The angel saw that all was not ok and asked the Lord, “When will you show mercy to Jerusalem and the cities of Judah?” The whole earth was quiet, but the angel specifically asked about Jerusalem and Judah because this was the Lord’s chosen place. Jerusalem is the epicenter of the earth’s activity. Because the Jews in Jerusalem were beaten down and subdued, the Lord’s work wasn’t being completed and therefore, there was a false sense of peace and quiet.
Instantly, the Lord spoke with compassion and comfort and told the angel to PROCLAIM HIS LOVE over the people. He was angry that the nations had gone beyond the measure of discipline He intended for His people. God’s response to these nations would bring judgment upon them for their abusiveness, but He would bring restoration to Jerusalem. He restates His promise for abundant prosperity, comfort and favor to Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is on the Lord’s heart today and so is America. America was founded on God’s Word and birthed from His heart. Therefore, we can be assured that, though we have sinned in the same way the Jews have done, God’s heart of compassion and comfort are for us. He wants to rebuild America and Israel and He’s looking His people to rise up and partner with Him. We have modern day prophets declaring the same words over America. Apostle and Prophet Dutch Sheets received the Word of the Lord where God spoke “Mercy” over America six times. Let’s agree with this Word and rise up to do our part.
- Pray for the beauty of the Lord to be seen in Jerusalem once again and for the people of the land of Israel to enter into the new covenant, written in the Blood of Jesus, that they may become the Bride of Christ. (Isaiah 62:3-5)
- The reproach of the past season must be stripped away so our new identity can fully blossom. The Blood of Jesus cleanses us from all reproach. Pray for the spirit of repentance to flood the understanding of the Body of Christ that they may turn away from their old identity and embrace the new that God is calling us into. He is turning our reproach into rejoicing! (Isaiah 54:4, Eph 1:18)