Title: Let The Children Play / Topic: God Shows Up

Today’s Reading: Zechariah 7; Zechariah 8; Zechariah 9; Luke 13

Scripture: Zechariah 8:3-5

This is what the LORD says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain.”

This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with cane in hand because of his age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.”

Observation: These words of the prophet speak of a future time of God's blessing upon Jerusalem. The Lord promises to return and dwell in Jerusalem. I love how the effect of God's physical presence in the city is described: safe streets. Men and women of "ripe old age" [you gotta love that phrase!] sit in the streets which are also "filled with boys and girls playing there."

Application: You don't see safe streets in most places in today's world. We have mean streets. Old people, particularly women, are not safe in our mean streets. And most parents wouldn't think of allowing their kids to be out in the streets playing. We can't let our kids out of our sight. But when God shows up, everything changes. God's presence results in people simply being able to live in a safe and fun place. The old folks hang out in the streets. Boys and girls at play fill the streets. I can't wait for the Lord to show up in Jerusalem. Let the children play.

Prayer: Lord, you are so amazing. You are holy and awesome and almighty and powerful. And yet when your presence comes into the realm of humans, it's recess for the kids! That's fantastic. Help me to be a person who walks in your power in the way that old folks and children feel free and at ease to just enjoy life.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.