The book of Zechariah was written after the return of the remnant from captivity. The temple was only half built, and the prophet encouraged the people to complete the task.
The name Zechariah is significant. The Hebrew name means “Yahweh remembers” or “Yahweh has remembered.” What we know is that even through such a strong chastisement of the people (the captivity), God was always aware of the covenant He had with the people of Israel. He had promised the Messiah would come to them, and the captivity and destruction of the temple had not changed His intent. As Zechariah said, “The Lord has been very angry with your fathers” (1:2). However, it was the Lord’s intent to reconcile with his people.
Note these words, “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Return to Me,’ says the Lord of Hosts, ‘and I will return to you,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘Do not be like your fathers, to whom the former prophets preached, saying, “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Turn now from evil ways and your evil deeds.’” But they did not hear nor heed me,’ says the Lord” (1:3-4).
A lesson for us today. Our acceptance by God is conditioned upon our hearing and heeding His appeals. If we will return to God, be assured He is waiting and willing to receive us! (cf. 1 John 1:9).
