Return

This word can be a noun or a verb. As a verb it means to go back to a place or turn one’s attention back to something. As a noun it means an act of going back to a place or activity or an act of going back to a previous condition. Whether the word return is used as a noun or verb, it implies coming back or going back to something or someone. The Lord has watched me return to Him many times over the years. I somehow get it in my head that I can live without Him and I try only to fail miserably. He always welcomes my return.

Zechariah was speaking on behalf of the Lord as He calls for the return of His people. Check this out…

2 ‘The Lord was very angry with your ancestors. 3 Therefore tell the people: this is what the Lord Almighty says: “Return to me,” declares the Lord Almighty, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.

16 ‘Therefore this is what the Lord says: “I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,” declares the Lord Almighty.

17 ‘Proclaim further: this is what the Lord Almighty says: “My towns will again overflow with prosperity, and the Lord will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.”’ (Zechariah 1:2-3; 16-17 NIV)

Sometimes when I see the word return, I see it as retreat. I might see it as failure and I’m coming back to “lick my wounds” before trying again. I think retreat is necessary in battle when I’m up against a tough opponent. I should take a step back to assess and gain perspective on the situation.

In this passage the Lord is promising to return to His people as they return to Him. He is very willing to accept me back home, I need to move in His direction. I enjoy going on short trips rather than long trips, because I love being home. When I’m walking in step with the Lord and I feel His Presence in me it is like being home multiplied many times over. Being at home with the Lord is a place of comfort, peace, steady heart, filled with love and grace. Every time I leave His Presence, I miss what I have with Him and I return again and again.

Pressing On!

Dwayne