September 17, 2012 The Meal is Ready

Return to God Zechariah 1:3 Therefore tell the people: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Return to me,’ declares the LORD Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the LORD Almighty. SEE HERE God’s impassioned plea, “Return to me.” You must know that this is not a casual invitation to his people, but God’s love pours forth from these words as he calls the Jews to come home to him. Think of this. The mighty God of the universe calls his people Israel to come out of their exile to love him and to receive his love. They have been living in exile in Babylon because God had sent them there in their sin to live away from home for 70 years. Some Jews had stayed in Jerusalem. But except for a remnant, the Jews did not worship their Lord. Now the “time out” is done, and it’s time for God to forgive his people. Do you think they believed his invitation? Sometimes it’s hard to believe that someone you’ve hurt really wants you back, isn’t it? You hear their words, “Come on over for dinner.” But you’re still feeling guilty, or you doubt their forgiveness. You think, “Oh, he’s just saying that.” You refuse the invitation, and you miss the meal. As the Israelites returned to Jerusalem, they had to trust God had forgiven them and truly wanted them to return to him. They had to have faith God was serious in his desire for them. They needed to know he still loved them. How about you? Are you, perhaps, feeling exiled from God because of some sin in your life? You must let it go, and go back to God. Return your heart to him, and you will know his love for you. It’s True! God’s invitation has been sent. Enjoy the meal.