Our Scripture meditation is based on Zephaniah 3:14–15, the start of the Old Testament reading for next week.
[14] Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! [15] The LORD has taken away the judgments against you; he has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; you shall never again fear evil.
Christmas is a season of joy, but what is the source of that joy? Our Scripture passage gives us a glimpse of the source.
The people of Israel had every reason to worry about the Lord’s judgements against them. Under the influence of several ungodly kings, Israel was often led into idolatry. This fall into sin led to God’s judgement. Furthermore, Israel was always threatened by enemy countries which worshipped false gods. Hearing that God would take away his judgements and clear away Israel’s enemies would certainly lead to rejoicing.
Looking back, we see that this prophesy was also about Jesus. The Christ came to take away God’s judgement not only against Israel, but against all people. In his death and resurrection, Jesus defeated all of God’s enemies, especially Satan. Jesus is the Lord, who now dwells in the midst of his people. Because of Jesus work on our behalf, we no longer fear evil, including death and the devil.
Kevin Wilson 360 