June 1-7, 2025

Recently, I hiked through the Shenandoah Mountains and came across a stunning row of Mountain Laurels. These shade-loving bushes burst with fragrant pink blossoms near the clearings—it felt like a glimpse of Heaven. As I walked, I thought of Zechariah’s vision where the Lord appears among the Myrtle Trees. I wondered—what if Jesus had appeared to me there among the Mountain Laurels? In Zechariah 1, the angel of the Lord says messengers found no one faithful—people were comfortable while others suffered. But in verse 16, God promises mercy, restoration, and a measured plan for His people. That measuring line reminds me: God has a purpose, and He invites us into it. Even now, His angels are seeking faithful messengers—those who will carry His message, care for others, and extend mercy. So I ask: How is God inviting you to be a messenger of mercy? Read the passage throughout this month and seek to be challenged by the Lord on ways you can share His message, care for others, and extend mercy to those in your path. 

This week's Bible reading: Zechariah 1:1-21

Focus Verses: Zechariah 1:1-6

Theme: Mercy

Day 1: Verse 1 gives a point of reference for the history of this passage. It would be dated in 520 BC when the remnant of God returned from exile. What do you think it was like for the people of God to be sent away in exile?  

Day 2: Verse 2 speaks of the word of the Lord coming to Zechariah. Look up the meanings of the name of this prophet of God. What do you think about the significance of his name? 

Day 3: God pleads with His children to “return to me!” and He makes a promise in return, “and I will return to you!” Do you have a time when you wandered from the Lord? What brought you back? Write a prayer thanking God for being there at your return. 

Day 4: How do you feel about the Lord being angry with His children? 

 Day 5: What do you do when God feels far away? 

Challenge: Practice carrying His message this week to someone who might be far away from God. Look for a small way you can share the love of God with them. Look for who He is putting in your path and act on it. 

Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches and Digital Missioners with Visual Faith™ Ministry. Find them on our Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.