Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.
There are three characters in this chapter: Joshua, Satan and the angel of the Lord. The angel is God's spokesman, who speaks with his voice. Joshua is the High Priest (Ezra 3.2), who with Zerubbabel, whom we will meet in the next chapter, is leading the work of rebuilding the Temple. Satan is not the traditional 'enemy of God and man'; the word is literally 'the satan' or 'the accuser'. In the vision his role is as God's courtroom prosecutor, and he is ready to accuse Joshua, who is wearing 'filthy' clothes (verse 3); the word is related to 'excrement'.
The state of his dress symbolises his guilt. The High Priest who is working to rebuild the House of God on earth is himself unworthy of his task; the satan is right. But the angel speaks words of forgiveness: 'I have taken away your sin and will give you new clothes to wear' (verse 4). And if Joshua continues to be faithful, his prayers will be heard; he will be given, probably at his investiture when the Temple is completed, a stone symbolising wisdom; and the whole land will be forgiven.
Today, we might face satans of our own; accusers who remind us of our weakness, failure and guilt. Many of us live with deep shame, and feel we aren't fit to belong with others. But God's angel says, 'May the LORD condemn you, Satan!' (verse 2). We are forgiven, cleansed and made useful to God because of his loving grace to us.
God, help me never to be so overwhelmed by a knowledge of my sin that I forget your mercy and grace, which is greater still.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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