January 6, 2021 -- John 19:37 -- Pierced

And again another Scripture says, “They will look om him whom they pierced.”

John 19:37 English Standard Version

It might be tempting to shrug off this obscure reference and read on to what you might think of as more interesting or something you might deem to be more relevant. You’d miss much of the drama of this passage and by doing that overlook a strand of promise that goes from Zechariah to this passage and is picked up and woven into Revelation with great colour.

In Zechariah 12:10 it is the LORD, the Mighty One of Heaven and Earth, Who is pierced. Grieved by His people’s transgressions. Yet, as you read on the prophecy indicates that this piercing will open up a fountain of healing for the house of David and for the people of Jerusalem so that they shall be cleansed from their uncleanness (Zechariah 13:1). What riches are to be given. What blessings will be poured out.

In the context of John, Jesus, the radiance of the Father and the exact imprint of His divine Nature is also the true descendant of David. When Jesus’ side was pierced, the prophesy was fulfilled and Jesus is the One Who brings cleansing from the uncleanness of the house of David. Jesus is the One Who makes Jerusalem and her inhabitants holy. All Who look to Him shall grieve over their sins and rejoice at His salvation.

Finally, in Revelation 1:7, when Jesus returns in splendor, all the inhabitants of the earth shall see Jesus, even those who pierced Him. Those who pierced Him and hated Him and all their ilk will be judged unto hell fire and damnation that will never end. And those who looked on Him Who was pierced and know their sins are forgiven will rejoice and bless the LORD, The Alpha and the Omega.

How rich is Your Word, God of Power and Majesty. How terrible are Your judgments and how extravagant are Your mercies. Thank You for the blessings of cleansing, of forgiveness, of life, which flowed to the House of David, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to Judea, to Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Help us, Spirit of God, Who are covered by the cleansing of Jesus, to rise up in obedience and faithfulness in honouring Him in our hearts, in our homes, and in our interactions at work, school, and play. Father in heaven, as many saints have been purified by the piercing of Jesus, may Your Name be praised. Father of Glory, may saints contemplate and be filled with wonder that You, knowing the end from the beginning, so clearly declared Your salvation. Amen.

https://youtu.be/HN3QIxFty-0