Zechariah 9:14-17
"the lord will appear"
This passage has two meanings. The first meaning is a literal continuation of the previous passage, describing the triumph of the Israelites, by God, over the Greeks. The image is a particularly visceral one, showing the complete domination of god over these enemies.
The battle is followed directly by an image of peace and prosperity. of israel sitting in the palm of God's hand, feeding on grain and wine - both are signs of plenty.
The 2nd perspective is much more exciting. Again, this one also carries on from the previous passage, but it instead focuses on the end. God has roused his people against the enemy (i.e. satan). Now, He [God] has appeared over them like a flash of lightning. He sounds the horn and rallies His forces against the enemy as in a storm. During this final battle, God will protect His people and they, in turn, will overcome Satan by the strength of God and God will cast him and his cohorts in hell. In these days there will be much blood - of Christians and non-Christians alike. For when spiritual forces engage in battle, there will, unfortunately, be casualties.
Afterwards, however, there is an image of peace and prosperity. Hs people are describes as God's flock, which He holds in the palm of His hand. His people will shine and sparkle in htis land like, no, not Edward Cullen, but like jewels in a crown. No only will His people shine, but they will be beautiful - for righteousness can only be beautiful. In the New Testament, one of the authors (i want to say Paul) speaks of the resurrection and trading our earthly bodies for new, pure ones and what is more beautiful than purity through righteousness from Christ's sacrifice? Finally, there will be an abundance in this new Earth that God is ruling over. There will be no poverty or starvation. In fact, there will be no want, because the ultimate fulfillment will be provided and on this God's people will thrive...
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