In

today’s reading from Zechariah 12, the Lord God of Israel is

speaking, and the Lord describes himself as “the one they have

pierced.” This phrase is quoted later in a description of Jesus’

death on the cross, saying, “These things happened so that the

scripture would be fulfilled: ‘Not one of his bones will be

broken,’ and . . . ‘They will look on the one they have

pierced’” (John 19:36-37). Through the prophet Zechariah, God was

describing the thrust of a Roman spear into Jesus’ side.

Another

prophet, Isaiah, also described Jesus’ suffering: “He was pierced

for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the

punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are

healed” (Isaiah 53:5).

When

God pours out his Spirit, we mourn over our sins and look to the

Savior, pierced on the cross for our sake—and we are washed clean.

No ordinary shower with soap and water can wash away sin. Only the

blood of Jesus Christ shed on the cross can do that.

Have

you felt remorse for your sin? Have you looked upon the one who was

pierced? By faith in Jesus, whose shed blood washes our sin away, you

can be forgiven and saved.