September 26

Morning

I looked out into the night and saw a man riding on a red horse. He was standing among the myrtle trees in the hollow, and behind him were red, sorrel, and white horses. — Zech 1:8 BSB

The vision described in this chapter speaks of Israel’s condition during Zechariah’s time, but it also applies to the Church of God today. The Church is compared to a myrtle grove flourishing in a valley—hidden, unobserved, and unnoticed by the casual observer. Like her Lord, the Church possesses a glory, but it is veiled from the eyes of the world, for her time of revealing has not yet come.

The image of the myrtle grove in the valley also conveys a sense of peace and security. While storms rage on the mountaintops, the myrtle trees by the still waters grow in tranquility. Similarly, the Church, though often opposed and persecuted, experiences an inner peace that the world cannot take away. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guards the hearts and minds of His people.

The myrtle tree, which remains evergreen throughout the seasons, also represents the perpetual growth of the saints. Even in the darkest times, the Church remains verdant with grace. In fact, she has often flourished most during her harshest winters. Adversity has only strengthened her.

Lastly, the myrtle is a symbol of victory and peace. In ancient times, conquerors wore crowns made of myrtle and laurel. Is not the Church always victorious, even in her trials? Is not every believer more than a conqueror through Christ who loves them? In peace and in victory, the saints live and die, resting in the arms of their triumphant Savior.

Evening

Wail, O cypress, for the cedar has fallen; the majestic trees are ruined! Wail, O oaks of Bashan, for the dense forest has been cut down! — Zech 11:2 BSB

When a great cedar falls in the forest, it is a sign that the woodsman is at work, and every tree should tremble, for the axe may soon come to it as well. We are all like trees marked for the axe, and the fall of one should remind us that our time, whether we are as great as a cedar or as humble as a fir, is quickly approaching.

We should not become desensitized to death, even though we hear about it frequently. Like birds that build their nests in church steeples, oblivious to the sound of funeral bells, we should not grow indifferent to the reality of death. It is the most serious of events and should sober our thoughts. We must not live carelessly, for our eternal destiny hangs by a thread. The sword of death is drawn; it is sharpened and ready. We should not treat it lightly.

To be unprepared for death is not just foolish—it is madness. When God’s voice echoes through the forest, all should hear it, from the fig tree to the sycamore, the elm to the cedar. Servants of Christ, be ready, for your Master will come suddenly, when the world least expects it. Be diligent in your work, for soon the grave will be dug for you, and you will be called to account for all that you have done. Parents, be ready! Ensure that your children are raised in the fear of the Lord, for they will soon be without you. Businessmen, be ready! Make sure that your affairs are in order, and serve God with all your heart, for your time of earthly service will soon end, and you will be called to stand before the Judge. Let us all prepare for that day with the utmost care, so that we may hear the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”