Sometimes it’s hard to keep it all straight — that is, who is king, how are they related, and what sorts of drama is going on? Today’s reading has Joram and Jehoram, names that are close to being the same, but representing different kingdoms. What I note is that both Israel and Judah are in a pattern of evil, thanks to the influence of and relation to Ahab, the former tyrant king.
In addition to being kindred spirits, we also see Israel and Judah joining forces against Hazael. There’s also the fiasco with the Edomites, descendants of their relative Esau. There is certainly a lot of drama and shifts in alliance in this reading.
While understanding this moment in history is helpful, what stood out to me was this. “But the Lord did not want to destroy Judah, for he had promised his servant David that his descendants would continue to rule, shining like a lamp forever.” It points ultimately to Jesus. In the near term, it also lets us know that God is playing an active role in what’s happening in all these territorial wars. That is a comforting thought, especially considering the conflicts underway in our world today.
So how does it point to Jesus, you might be wondering? My reflection may seem a little convoluted, but that’s okay. It’s my reflection, and I always welcome you to share your thoughts. We know that Jesus fulfills God’s promise to David to have a descendent on the throne. Jesus reigns forever on high, seated at the right hand of God.
The line about “shining like a lamp forever” is also very meaningful. In John 1, Jesus is identified as the Word. “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”
Psalm 119:105 takes that light reference in a different direction. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” I’ve always related the reference of “lamp” in this verse to the Bible itself. It is my life focus to walk in God’s light, letting the lamp of his Word guide my steps. I write my devotions because I want everybody to experience God through his word. It’s that lamp, God’s word, that will continue to shine in the darkness. Truth will always shine through.
People may try to stretch the truth, cover up the truth, avoid the truth, and even ignore the truth, but it will always prevail. Whether it’s knowing the truth or speaking the truth, both are found when we grow our relationship with God. When we spend time in God’s Word and in prayer, the truth is revealed to us. Even in the hard passages.
Take some time to listen for God’s message to you today.
Let’s pray …
Lord, I am so grateful for the truth you reveal to me in your word. Continue to shine your light through me so I can help others find you and love you. Thank you for your love and protection. Speak to my heart today and reveal the plans you have for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
