Sleeping Air Force
“But I will encamp at my temple to guard it against marauding forces. Never again will an oppressor overrun my people, for now I am keeping watch.”
Today’s Text: Zechariah 9:1-8 (Living Life Daily Devotional)
In Zechariah 9, we find the prophetic message declaring God’s judgment upon the surrounding nations of Israel and God’s protection over His people. Neighboring cities such as Hadrak, Damascus, Tyre, and Sidon will be brought down from their pride and haughty spirit. God will strip them of their wealth and security. The prophecy continues with God’s judgment extending to other cities such as Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and Ashdod. All of these are visions of God’s judgment upon Israel’s long-time enemies. Yet in the midst of His judgment, God also assures His people of his hedge of protection from oppression and invaders. He is faithful even in the midst of a fallen world.
In February 2014, Ethiopian Airlines Flight 702 was flying from Addis Ababa to Rome and was unexpectedly hijacked by its co-pilot. He locked the captain out of the plane’s cockpit and diverted the plane towards Geneva, Switzerland to seek political asylum. As the plane approached Swiss airspace, other European nations such as Italy and France scrambled their fighter jets to escort the plane safely. However when the hijacked plane entered the Swiss airspace, no fighter jet of the Swiss Air Force took off. It was early in the morning before 8am and the Swiss Air Force does not operate outside of normal office business hours due to budget restrictions. The spokesperson for the Defense Ministry of Switzerland admitted that Switzerland is unable to intervene because its airbases are closed at night.
Fortunately God does not have “office hours” however. His protection is not bound by time, fatigue, or budget like we are. He does not sleep nor does he need sleep. He is eternal and he is outside the bounds of time. God is always on constant watch and never looks away. If one ever wondered what God is doing all the time, He is watching over us 24/7.
There are events that occur in our lives that we are unable to control. It makes us vulnerable, filled with anxiety and fear when we feel unprotected and limited. Yet we must remember the promise of God to His people. He is keeping watch (verse 8). God will stand guard us and we are protected under His presence. May we ask God to fill our hearts with peace and comfort knowing this truth.
Almighty Father in Heaven, thank You for always watching over us. When the world feels uncertain or when I feel unprotected, remind me that You are my shield and defender. Help me to rest in Your faithful protection and to trust that You are always near, even in the darkest hours. Keep me close to You and give me peace in Your presence. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
