Restoration

“At that time I will bring you in, at the time when I gather you together; for I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes,” says the LORD.” ~ Zephaniah 3:20

Pick-ups, vans, and even moving trucks drive the streets of the town where I live. These vehicles are full of the tools of the trade. Fans, vacuums, hoses, and buckets are all ready to make an entrance and get started. The ads plastered to the sides proclaim restoration. Restoration from fire damage, floods, or broken pipes. Crews are ready to swoop in at a time of disaster and begin the process of fixing what is broken. They wash away soot, scoop up water, remove debris, and dry out the carpets. They are restoration crews.

Restoration is an important word in the Bible. It is the moment when God steps in and takes a look at the mess in our lives. As He views the damage caused by the sin sickness that ravages our hearts, He promises that we can be restored. It happens at the moment of baptism when God washes away the stain of sin and the guilty debris. It happens in times of repentance when God repairs broken hearts and heals soul deep wounds. It happens in every moment of surrender. When we give ourselves to God, He steps in and begins the process of transformation, the process of restoration.

Zephaniah and Haggai live in times when restoration is important. For Zephaniah, the Babylonian captivity is an event that will soon overtake Judah. King Josiah is in power and the land is experiencing restoration as idols are destroyed, the Law is studied, and the king leads his people to seek the heart of God. Zephaniah knows that if the people will surrender, God will change their hearts.

For Haggai, the Babylonian captivity is a thing of the near past. Jews have begun returning to their homeland. The foundations of the temple have been laid, but the people have become distracted. Enemies have threatened and kings have commanded, but God is now calling for His people to give themselves to restoration. Haggai calls the Israelites to finish the temple and restore worship, community, and fellowship with God.

For you and I today, the message of these two prophets highlights our need for restoration. The need to keep our eyes on God and focus on living in His light. As you read this week, remember that God restores, God heals, and God transforms.