Zechariah 8

“For there shall be a sowing of peace. The vine shall give its fruit, and the ground shall give its produce, and the heavens shall give their dew. And I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things.” (Zechariah 8:12, ESV)

For generations, God had spoken to His people through the prophets. He called them back to His covenant and to the way of peace and righteousness. But they stopped their ears and made their hearts diamond-hard. Therefore, the LORD was angry with them, and He scattered them among the nations. But God was jealous for Zion with great jealousy. He loved His people with an everlasting love. In the future, He will dwell in Jerusalem, and it will be called the City of Truth.

“Once again old men and women will walk Jerusalem’s streets with their canes and will sit together in the city squares. And the streets of the city will be filled with boys and girls at play.” (Zechariah 8:4–5, NLT)

I don’t think we can fully picture the glorious new world that will exist during the kingdom age. There will be no more crime, child abuse, disease, war, or even attacks from animals. We who know Jesus now and those who are resurrected at the rapture of the church will have immortal glorified bodies. Mortals who live on the earth will have extended lifespans. This blessed hope should be a comfort, especially during times of tribulation.

No wonder Peter tells us:

“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:13, ESV)

So I say, “Come, Lord Jesus, come!”

As for the Jews, God will fulfill His promises to Abraham. They will dwell in the land of Israel forever in peace. Everyone will sit under his own vine and fig tree, and no one will make them afraid anymore (Micah 4:4). The vine will bring forth good fruit, and the ground will yield plentiful crops. God will gather the remnant of Israel, and they will be a blessing to all nations. Many peoples and strong nations will come to seek the LORD in Jerusalem and pray to Him.

These are physical blessings that will come later. In the meantime, God gives us spiritual blessings to keep us now. He gives us grace, peace and truth to guard our hearts and preserve us in the faith until that Day.

“Heavenly Father, thank you that your plans for your people are good and that you will never leave us, forsake us, or harm us. Help us to be sober-minded and joyful. Help us labor diligently in the good works you have prepared for us until Jesus comes. In His name we pray. Amen.”