“The future splendor of this temple will be greater than that of former times,” the Lord of Heaven’s Armies has declared. “And in this place I will give peace,” decrees the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
Into the Text
As the people of Jerusalem begin the work of rebuilding the temple, it is apparent that it is nothing compared to the size and glory of the original temple. But God speaks through Haggai to tell the people to keep going. While the temple is undeniably important, there will come a day when God’s glory will be on display much more fully and gloriously than it is through the temple – no matter how magnificent the building may be. One day, God’s glory will be fully revealed through Jesus Christ.
God was once again reminding the people of His promise to King David that one of his descendants would rule as the forever king and rescuer (2 Samuel 7). God had graciously preserved David’s family line, and it would continue through Zerubbabel.
Though the people still didn’t know who this coming rescuer would be, God calls the people to continue to live with humility and obedience. They were to be faithful.
The Rescuer is none other than Jesus Christ. As the Israelites were waiting for the Messiah’s first arrival, we are waiting for His Second Coming. While we wait, we are also called to a life of humility and obedience. Our lives are to be a reflection of Christ’s character and love. We are called to serve those around us and to make the name of Jesus known.
Although we aren’t promised an easy path, we are assured that God will be with us every step of the way. God’s glory is revealed through Jesus, and one day, we will see Him face-to-face.
Prayer
God, thank you for keeping your promise to send your Son as our Savior. I eagerly wait for the day to see Jesus face-to-face. While I wait, help me to live with humility, dependance, and obedience to you. Amen.