Scripture Passage
Scripture Focus
In the very first month of the first year of his reign, Hezekiah reopened the doors of the Temple of the LORD and repaired them. (2 Chronicles 29:3 NLT)
Observation
I wrote yesterday about “uncertain times”—times of transition and how they are often opportunities to hear in fresh ways from God. Today I am reminded of how times of transition are also opportunities to act in fresh ways for God. “In the very first month of the first year of his reign,” the Bible says, “Hezekiah reopened the doors of the Temple of the Lord and repaired them.” Two things strike me about Hezekiah’s actions.
First, I love the immediacy of Hezekiah’s actions—“in the very first month of the first year of his reign” Hezekiah acted. I’m always way to willing to “get to it tomorrow”—to delay implementation of changes I know need to be made.
And second, I love imagery of Hezekiah’s actions—he “reopened the doors”. This was a return for Judah—a re-vival—of what had been vibrant and energized in the past, but had become stagnant and inactive. Hezekiah cleared the clutter and purified people and place.
So today—conveniently, on the first day of a new month—I’m going to think about what “doors” need to be reopened in my life…about what practices I’ve let fall into disuse…about what passions I’ve let flame out…that need to be revived and restored. And I’m going to find ways to act. Today.
Indeed, Hezekiah’s challenge is a word to me—and (perhaps) to you:
“My sons, do not neglect your duties any longer! The LORD has chosen you to stand in his presence, to minister to him, and to lead the people in worship and present offerings to him.” (2 Chronicles 29:11 NLT)
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3 comments:
Good word. Let us be renewed by His wonderful presence, restored by His Word, and moved to action by the power of The Holy Spirit. May we (the bride) awaken to those things that will last. May our hearts be set on the eternal while there is still time.
I'm reflecting on your words, Pastor, and I need to remind myself that some things that I know God has been knocking on my heart about aren't necessarily BIG things but small and significant things that might bless others and give God the glory. Thanks for the word.
I really enjoyed what everyone wrote today….Scripture is like a diamond - multi faceted with meaning to each individual…I may be teaching these chapters in Bible University this coming Sunday….I was captivated with Hezekiah, the Levites and the call to return to God….especially with the verse, "May the LORD, who is good, pardon everyone who sets his heart on seeking God—the LORD, the God of his fathers—even if he is not clean according to the rules of the sanctuary." And the LORD heard Hezekiah and healed the people.” 2 Chronicles 30: 18,19 God is not looking for perfection in our lives…he is looking for a people who are seeking Him….not for what He can do for them…but for the reason that He is the LORD!!!
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