The Lord their God will save his people. . . . They will sparkle . . . like jewels in a crown. (Zech. 9:16)
The UK’s Crown Jewels have been protected in the Tower of London for over 600 years. We were two of over 30 million visitors to view these shimmering gems. Saint Edward’s Crown, with 444 precious and semiprecious stones, is the most essential and revered crown. It is only used at coronations. The crowns are guarded but displayed grandly.
Our focus verse describes the victory of a fierce battle of many nations. Some believe this depicts Alexander the Great conquering many nations. Others suggest it describes the rule of Alexander’s successor, Antiochus Epiphanes, who attempted to exterminate the Jews, forbade celebration of Jewish feasts, and forced them to eat forbidden food. Many Jews were martyred. The Maccabees fought against Greece for twenty-five years and finally prevailed. These verses may refer to a historical time, but they also speak of a future event when Christ will return and win the battle against evil for all time.
“On that day,” Christ will win! He will become the good shepherd protecting and providing for his sheep— those who were martyred for their faith and those who have remained faithful. We are his cherished possessions, jewels in a crown glittering on his hillsides. We will be “beautiful” (v.17)!
This is a future promise for believers. However, he presently is our loving, protective shepherd, and we are his prized crown jewels.
Remain faithful to receive the crown.
Gena Duncan is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan College. She and her husband reside in Naples, Florida, in the winter season.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
