As the final book of the Old Testament closes, the pronouncement of God’s justice and the promise of His restoration through the coming Messiah is ringing in the ears of the Israelites. Four hundred years of silence ensues, ending with a similar message from God’s next prophet, John the Baptist, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Matthew 3:2).
Miaka mia nne ya kimya inafuatia, ikiisha na ujumbe unaofanana kutoka kwa nabii wa Mungu aliyefuata, Yohana Mbatizaji, akitangaza, "Tubuni, maana ufalme wa mbinguni umekaribia" (Mathayo 3: 2).