The Glory of Israel
Today's passage depicts what is undoubtedly the epoch or high point of the kingdom of Israel. The temple era seemed to usher in a sort of spiritual revival. At Mount Sinai, after the exodus from Egypt, the Israelites were terrified of God's presence as he descended on the mountain. After that time, though they had the law, the Israelites were stiff-necked. Many of the them perished in the desert due to their rebellion and unbelief. They had great conquests under the leadership of Joshua, but shortly after that, in the times of the judges, spiritual waywardness ensued. Samuel brought a brief revival as he was seemingly one of the few faithful prophets in Israel. Then under Saul, the people were partly by fear as he was not fully obedient to the Lord in his kingship. Next David ruled and became known as a man after God's own heart. He was loved by the people and ruled wisely. Then he raised up Solomon and prepared him to rule having God's will and intention in mind. Through the revelation David received about constructing a house for the Lord, Solomon had the means and plans to see this task through to completion.
Now it seems as though Israel has a different spirit; the people and priests are of one joyful accord as they anticipate the new way in which God would dwell with the nation. God's dwelling in the temple was a sign that he would never leave nor forsake them. In fact, Solomon's prayer, which is so humble and beautiful, points to God's consistent attributes of justice and mercy. God always judges justly and at the same time shows mercy in his dealings with his people. Solomon understood the times and the people and more importantly the intention of God. His prayer is filled with a deep understanding of human nature and history. Thus, he asks for God's mercy and restoration when they become wounded by their own sin. Solomon also intercedes for those who are not of Israel; he longs for all of mankind to know the Creator and Sovereign of the universe. All throughout Solomon's prayer, we see god-given wisdom at work.
Surely, there are many applications to be found in this passage; we could think about the importance of God-centered prayer or what does it mean in a practical sense that God dwells with us. But at the same time, I'd like to simply revel in this awe-inspiring moment. I wish with all of my heart that I could be transported back to that moment in order to bask in such a glorious and meaningful occasion. A time will come though when we will see the Lord as he is, when we will see something greater than the temple with completely unveiled eyes (1 Cor 13:12). It will be a glorious day no doubt exceeding all expectations and preconceived notions. Until then, let's draw all the nearer to God and meditate upon his person.
 |
| Glory of the LORD filling the temple |
Now it seems as though Israel has a different spirit; the people and priests are of one joyful accord as they anticipate the new way in which God would dwell with the nation. God's dwelling in the temple was a sign that he would never leave nor forsake them. In fact, Solomon's prayer, which is so humble and beautiful, points to God's consistent attributes of justice and mercy. God always judges justly and at the same time shows mercy in his dealings with his people. Solomon understood the times and the people and more importantly the intention of God. His prayer is filled with a deep understanding of human nature and history. Thus, he asks for God's mercy and restoration when they become wounded by their own sin. Solomon also intercedes for those who are not of Israel; he longs for all of mankind to know the Creator and Sovereign of the universe. All throughout Solomon's prayer, we see god-given wisdom at work.
Surely, there are many applications to be found in this passage; we could think about the importance of God-centered prayer or what does it mean in a practical sense that God dwells with us. But at the same time, I'd like to simply revel in this awe-inspiring moment. I wish with all of my heart that I could be transported back to that moment in order to bask in such a glorious and meaningful occasion. A time will come though when we will see the Lord as he is, when we will see something greater than the temple with completely unveiled eyes (1 Cor 13:12). It will be a glorious day no doubt exceeding all expectations and preconceived notions. Until then, let's draw all the nearer to God and meditate upon his person.
Comments
Post a Comment