January 3, 2021: Returning Home –Scott Oppliger

 

Many within Christendom are familiar with the words of Zechariah 9 because of the connection Matthew makes between it and Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. Fewer, however, are aware of the verses that follow. In particular, when the prophet says, “Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope …” This curious phrase was written to those who were exiles in Babylon who had returned to find Jerusalem in ruins because of the Babylonian destruction decades before.

Still, after destruction, after exile, after returning to rebuild their city there is a flame that hasn’t gone out: hope. There is no ignoring the pain, suffering, disillusionment, grief and anger the people felt upon their return. Yet, in the midst of this there is hope. There is a future. The story, as it were, is going somewhere. And according to Matthew, the story is moving toward a time when Jesus himself will ride into town. As we begin this season of teaching, we will explore the nature of hope - one that sees itself a part of a larger story. One that believes God wastes nothing.