The Old Testament closes with God’s People returning from the Babylonian exile and rebuilding their lives in Jerusalem. The Jews returned in three waves over a time span of about 100 years, behind the leaders Zerubbabel, Ezra and Nehemiah.

Zerubbabel was the leader of the first wave of exiles.

The last of Haggai’s prophecies is the greatest of all! This is a prophecy that points to the coming of the Messiah! The coming of the Messiah is SO SIGNIFICANT that it is described as shaking the heavens and the earth! The Messiah’s Kingdom, power and authority will overturn, shatter, and surpass every other kingdom.

The connection to Jesus the Messiah is through Zerubbabel. Zerubbabel is an ancestor of Jesus! Zerubbabel himself becomes a sign of the Messiah for the people — the Messiah will be a ruler like Zerubbabel, but even greater. Zerubbabel and his signet ring points the people forward to Jesus the Messiah: to His authority, power, and His kingship.

On Palm Sunday, Jesus is clearly seen as the Messiah, the promised King, sent from God with full authority, to fulfill all the Old Testament prophecies and promises. God has shook the heavens and the earth; the Messiah is here and He is the “Signet Ring” of God!

Today, on this Palm Sunday, we join the crowds in Jerusalem, waving our palms, shouting our own “Hosannas!” to the King. The King, who like Zerubbabel so long ago, has the authority of God, and the power, not only to rule, but to save you from your sins!

AMEN!