Zechariah 10:1-12
The Jewish people, deceived by their idols, betrayed and oppressed by wicked leaders, have been for a long time like a flock without a shepherd (v. 2; cf. Matthew 9:36). But God will visit the "house of Judah" whence Christ came forth, "the corner stone" (v. 4). He will strengthen them for the battle. He will, moreover, not forget the house of Joseph, those of Ephraim (i.e. the ten tribes, still scattered). He will save them, will bring them back and will meet all their needs . . . (v. 6). After so many empty dreams (v. 2), what joy will fill their heart!
Dear Christian friend, the Lord has shown you even greater mercy than this. Is it a constant subject of joy for you?
Just as the prodigal son in the "far country", coming to himself, as he remembered the father’s house, the scattered Israelites will remember their God "in far countries, and they shall live . . . and turn again . . ." (v. 9; Luke 15:17). "I will . . . gather them, for I have redeemed them" the LORD promises (vv. 8, 10; John 11:52). The love of the Lord Jesus will not be fully satisfied without the presence of His own beside Him. Before bringing back His earthly people into their land in their entirety, He will have introduced His dearly beloved redeemed people into His Father’s house, where He has prepared their place for them (cf. John 14:2).