For Zion's Sake

Isaiah 62:1 – For Zion's sake, I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake, I will not remain quiet till her righteousness shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. (NIV)

Current events in Israel remind me of an old cartoon I saved depicting modern day news in the language of Scripture. While the cartoon makes light of the serious ongoing conflict in the Middle East, it clearly demonstrates how little has changed over thousands of years in regard to the events happening in Israel today. Consequently, I am reminded of the prophecy in Zechariah 12:2-3 (KJV) in which the Lord declares that Jerusalem will be "a cup of trembling" and "a burdensome stone" to many. Yet, in spite of so much turmoil, Isaiah 28:16 (NIV) guarantees a different stone — "a precious cornerstone", that is a secure foundation in Zion.

Ironically, the name "Jerusalem" means "foundation of peace" and plays a major role in God's divine plan for the world. Ezekiel 5:5 (NIV) describes the holy city as being in the "centre of the nations". Strategically, Israel's location is of tremendous importance since it borders the three continents of Asia, Africa and Europe. With this convenient position, God has chosen her to be a light to all nations. Jesus said in John 12:32, "But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself." (NIV) Through Israel, though small in size, the powerful ministry of the gospel of peace was preached first in Jerusalem and then eventually spread to all mankind.

For believers, the future reign of Christ is established:

Isaiah 2:4 – He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples, they will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. (NIV)

Until then, Scripture instructs us in Psalm 122:6 to "pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (NIV). As Christians, let us look forward in hope for the blessed day when there shall be true peace in the region and for Zion's sake. May the blazing torch of her salvation reach unto the uttermost parts of the earth.

Prayer: Lord, according to Your will, we pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Thank You for the precious message of the gospel that was delivered to all mankind through the nation of Israel. We look forward to the blessed hope of Your return when the Prince of Peace shall rule the world in justice and truth. In Jesus' holy name, we pray. Amen.

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