Sing, O Daughter of Zion

In the third week of Advent, we listen to the prophetic voices of the past and anticipate the mighty works of the Lord from the prophet Zephaniah.

During Zephaniah's ministry, his voice cried out amid a seemingly joyous world, where Judah was steeped in idolatry, hypocrisy, and complacency. Corrupt leaders, social injustice, and prideful indifference to God marked the people's downfall. Zephaniah warned of judgment that would come on the day of the Lord.

In their time, joy and bliss was missing from the people of Judah. Could you imagine living in a world without joy? What are the things that bring you smiles and laughter? What brings warmth to your heart? All of these experiences were utterly devoid in the time of ancient Israel. But what we’ve retold once again, God is up to something.

And through the prophet, the Lord offered hope, promising that a faithful remnant would be restored and experience God's peace and joy.

Another way of saying it. Joy comes in the morning!

It is this anticipation of this yet to come, which draws into the oracles of the prophet Zephaniah. Turn with me to Zeph. 3:14-20.

Sing, O Church, and fear not, for the Lord your God is in your midst (Zeph. 3:14-17, Isa. 12:2-6).

Isaiah 12:2–6 ESV

2 “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.” 3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4 And you will say in that day: “Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. 5 “Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth. 6 Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.”

The Lord will deal with everything and turn our shame into praise (Zeph. 3:18-19, Phil. 4:4-7).

Philippians 4:4–7 ESV

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The Lord will will bring us together and restore our fortunes with the gracious coming of Christ (Zeph. 3:20, Luke 3:18).

Luke 3:18 ESV

18 So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people.

In Advent, I rejoice with Lord, for his praise and presence is always with me.