This is what the Lord Almighty says: “In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’
— Zechariah 8:23

Today’s Text: Zechariah 8:18-23 (Living Life Daily Devotional)

We continue in Zechariah chapter 8 where we see a message of hope, restoration, and the widespread recognition of God’s blessing being conveyed. The promise of God’s favor will bring joy and gladness amongst the people. God gives assurance to His people that in the future, many nations and their people will seek to join them in Jerusalem, recognizing the presence and blessings of God in that city. The elders and leaders of Israel will be honored and those that are from the far lands will come to learn more about who God is and participated in this revived and renewed community. The past sorrows will turn into celebrations and the world will recognize God’s glory through the city of Jerusalem. 

This truth is also visible in our church today. We are GCC, a gospel-centered church.

When we first had the announcement of a pastoral transition, there were a few anxious or uncertain about what will happen next. However during the pastoral transition, many new visitors to Good Community Church in both the Korean and English-speaking congregation were surprised by how strong and vibrant our church remained even without a Senior Pastor for the past few months. Many remarked that God’s presence was clearly evident here. I believe God is pleased that our church, our congregation members, our deacons and elders, our church staff, our Canvas Lead Pastor, and our two previous Senior Pastors, were consistently prioritizing seeking God’s will above personal desires or ambitions. Our church’s faithfulness in putting God first has created a spiritual atmosphere where His presence can dwell and be experienced by all who come. The best part is how many people’s lives were transformed by the gospel because they came to our church.

Just as God promised restoration and joy to His people here in our passage, He continues to bless His people that seek Him wholeheartedly even today. His presence is not dependent on a single leader or a grandeur event but flows through a congregation committed to obedience, truth, and peace.

And so as we move forward, let us continue to seek His presence in our church. How do we do that? 

  1. Prioritizing prayer in our daily lives.

  2. Participating in evangelism and local/foreign missions.

  3. Actively serving at the church.

  4. Engaging in upcoming church events with the community.

  5. Pursuing unity with our entire GCC family.

It is through God’s presence in our church that more VIPs and newcomers will come, hear the gospel of Jesus, and have their lives transformed. When His presence rests on His people, it draws others to Him, just as Zechariah 8 shows us that nations will be drawn to Jerusalem when God’s blessings are evident.

Almighty Father in Heaven, thank You for Your promise to turn our mourning into gladness. Renew our hearts today with Your joy and peace. Help us to be faithful in prayer and truthful in love, so others may see Your presence with us. May our lives point people toward You and may our church become a place where Your presence is unmistakeable. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen. 

Pastor Nathan Kang

Nathan Kang was born and raised in Torrance and joined the GCC family in August 2023. While he grew up in a pastor’s home, it wasn't until February 18th 2008 when accepted Christ. He was called to ministry on August 26, 2010 at a Summer Youth Retreat and went to West Coast Baptist College. Nathan graduated with his Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2021 and is currently pursuing his PhD in History. Prior to GCC, he served at Hillcrest Baptist for 9 years. Nathan enjoys tennis, weightlifting, snowboarding, golf, McDonald's, and volunteering for the American Cancer Society.

Previous
Previous

Sleeping Air Force

Next
Next

Amazing Grace