NOTES for Zec 8:1-23
As the prophet lists the Lord’s promises, he continually names the One from whom they come: the Lord of hosts, which means the Lord of armies. This name is usually associated with notions of strength and might, with everything we are accustomed to connect with an army. Yet words of peace and forgiveness come precisely from the One whom we are accustomed to regard as fearsome and surpassing everything imaginable.
This does not mean that manifestations of the Lord’s power in the world cease to inspire awe, but we begin to approach an understanding of the true meaning of His might. It uproots evil and keeps the universe from destruction.
Once again we hear a prophecy about many other nations coming to the God who revealed Himself to the Jews. At that time many Jews did not value the knowledge of God revealed to them, just as today many sons and daughters of Christian nations seek revelations among pagans. Yet today we also see the spiritual thirst of those who were cut off from Christianity. The very appearance of such seekers reminds longtime Christians of the importance of what they have ceased to value...