Scripture
Zephaniah 6:9-15 (ESV)
And the word of the LORD came to me: “Take from the exiles Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah, who have arrived from Babylon, and go the same day to the house of Josiah, the son of Zephaniah. Take from them silver and gold, and make a crown, and set it on the head of Joshua, the son of Jehozadak, the high priest. And say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, “Behold, the man whose name is the Branch: for he shall branch out from his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD. It is he who shall build the temple of the LORD and shall bear royal honor, and shall sit and rule on his throne. And there shall be a priest on his throne, and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.” ’ And the crown shall be in the temple of the LORD as a reminder to Helem, Tobijah, Jedaiah, and Hen the son of Zephaniah. “And those who are far off shall come and help to build the temple of the LORD. And you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you. And this shall come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God."
AI Prompt
A botanical illustration-style image depicting a tall, alive branch growing robustly from a dead old stump. The branch should be vibrant and full of life, with lush green leaves, symbolizing vitality and growth. The golden crown, intricately designed, is positioned near the top of the branch, adding an element of majesty. The stump, though dead, serves as a strong foundation for the thriving branch. The background remains minimal, in classic botanical illustration style, highlighting the contrast between the living branch and the dead stump, and focusing on the detailed textures and colors of the natural elements.
Devotional Reflection
After receiving the eight night visions, the Lord instructs Zechariah to make a royal crown and place it upon the head of Joshua--the high priest. The crown is not to remain on his head, rather it is to be placed in the newly built temple as a memorial of God's promise to raise up a Branch from the royal line of David who will not only rule over his people in righteousness, but who will also function as their high priest--their intercessor between a holy God and sinful man. All this was fulfilled in the coming of Christ--who came to be crowned--not with gold--but with thorns. Who was enthroned as the King of Glory upon a wooden cross. Who delivered his people by his perfect obedience even unto death. Christ is true King and true High Priest. He lives to make intercession for us and he will come again to usher us into his kingdom.