December 5th, 2025

12 And say to him, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, “Behold, the man whose name is the Branch: for he shall branch out from his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord. 13 It is he who shall build the temple of the Lord and shall bear royal honor, and shall sit and rule on his throne. And there shall be a priest on his throne, and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.”’

In a small town nestled between rolling hills, the people longed for hope and peace. They remembered the promises of old, that someday a King would come to reign with justice and righteousness. Among them was Zechariah, a humble prophet who had received a divine vision.

One winter's day, Zechariah was pondering a strange symbol—a branch, standing tall and full of life. The Lord spoke to him, saying, "Behold, the man whose name is the Branch, for he shall branch out from his place and build the temple of the Lord." This was the promise of a coming King, a Savior who would bring salvation and establish God's kingdom.

As the days grow shorter and darkness falls over our land, let us hold  onto this hope. As we decorate our homes with greenery and lights, let’s remember that even in the darkest times, the promise of the Branch shines brightly.

As the advent season approaches, let Zechariah’s words echo in your heart: "He shall build the temple of the Lord and he shall be a priest on his throne." This is a reminder that God's promises are sure.

With anticipation and faith, we can remember the day when the Branch came, bringing light, hope, and peace to all.