I will
remove the sin of this land in a single day – Zech 3:9
We are frequently reminded in the
Bible that walking in the ways of the Lord brings blessings and sin brings
condemnation. The Chronicler has a special interest in this theme of
retribution and in 2 Chr 17 we read how Jehoshaphat was richly rewarded for his
obedience to God; however, we know that he experienced consequences of sin too.
In our passage from Zechariah today
we read about a vision in which the Lord shows us that through Christ he will
remove the sin of the land in a single day, just like taking off filthy clothes
and replacing them with rich garments. This is associated with establishment of
peace and prosperity, as shown in the proverbial picture of sitting under a
vine with neighbours.
The day when sin is removed is Good
Friday, but may also be a reference to Christ’s second coming, which we learn
more about in Revelation. In Rev 7 John records another vision with an image of
clothing: multitudes wearing robes, which were washed and made white in the
blood of the Lamb.
Have you noticed? God doesn’t just
clean our filthy clothes, he gives us rich garments. He doesn’t just remove our
sins; he also blesses us richly in our lives with peace, prosperity and
fellowship.
It is extraordinary that we can
think of ourselves as clothed in clean rich garments. However, we mustn’t
forget the ultimate purpose and promise (Rev7:15): because Christ removed our
sins, we are before the throne, serving God, who will wipe away every tear from
our eyes.
Thank you God, that through Jesus
Christ we stand before you clothed in salvation and righteousness (Isa 61:10).
Help us to serve you in the knowledge of all your blessings now and those to
come. Amen.
(friend of Christ Church