In any relationship there’s nothing worse than silence. We were meant to communicate, verbally, non-verbally, in physical touch, in written form, and in acts of kindness and giving. So why did God allow 400 years of silence between the book of Malachi, and Matthew? Was there a purpose to it?
As with everything God does, there was indeed a Divine purpose. While the people waited longingly in silence, no new prophets were sent. Where was God in these difficult times? The people had grown accustomed to God sending His messengers (prophets), but now there were no new prophets sent. But… they had access to many of the Old Testament books filled with prophecy, and this silence drew them to the Scriptures…
During this time, Greece came to power only to be conquered by Rome (which was prophesied). Israel was also ruled by Rome, as well as burdensome laws laid heavy on the people through their own leaders. Weariness, hopelessness, and powerlessness gripped their hearts, and the people began searching for their Messiah - their Savior - Hope Itself! The stage was set for Messiah to come.
Then it happened! This daunting, frightening silence was broken - not with a trumpet blare, but with the tenderness of a Baby’s cry. God had come in human flesh.
This gaping void of nothingness was now filled with the person of Jesus, God with us! His promise to never leave us nor forsake us has filled every day since. His inerrant Word speaks to us with the bottomless treasures of His knowledge. And His Spirit’s presence within us, is so often taken for granted, but oh, how those Old Testament Believers would’ve loved to have had Christ dwell within them!
Friends, like the plane flying through the darkest night, our “Controls” are working just fine. There is no more silence! Our Savior has come! He fulfilled His mission on earth, to die for you and me. We serve a risen Lord who will not leave us alone in the dark, but will lead us Home, just as he promised (John 14:3).
If you listen carefully, you can hear Him speaking…
Comments