This is what the Lord Almighty has promised: “In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew—the Messiah, Jesus himself. They will grab his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you—in fact, you are Immanuel, God with us and for us—all of us.’” (New Testament fulfillment and paraphrase of Zechariah. 8:23)
Lord Jesus, I am so glad the World Cup is going on in America while our nation celebrates its birthday. There is so much international joy going on, so much every nation respect—the best of what sports can give us and a taste of the Day for which we long.
The Day when nobody will declare their independence, but all of us will declare our 100% dependence on you and our 100% delight in you. Indeed, you are the “one Jew” in Zechariah’s vision—the promised Messiah, the Lord who became the Lamb, our King who is now redeeming and gathering your every-nation bride.
“Ten people from all languages and nations” is shorthand—a glorious reminder of God’s promise to Abraham to birth and rebirth a forever family as numerous as stars, sand, and dust (Gen.12-17). Later you gave the Apostle John a vision on Gospel-steroids of these promises made to both Abraham and Zechariah:
“I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes…” (Rev. 7:9). This is what history is all about, Jesus. It’s why you came into the world. It’s our great hope and deepest longing.
We “take hold of your robe” in the Gospel and are immediately robed in your perfect righteousness—our salvation and wedding garment. Hallelujah a gazillion times over. On this particular July 4th, we celebrate you as the Lord of the nations and the Saviour of the world! Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.
