Read Daniel 1:1-7
The Book of Daniel will introduce us to the prophet, Daniel, who was living in Babylon during the exile. In the second half of the book, Daniel shares interesting dreams and visions for us to ponder, ultimately giving us confidence that God is in control. Daniel’s life displays how we can live a godly life in a sinful world. We’ll encounter themes of perseverance, finding purpose in life, and God’s faithfulness.
In our first reading, Daniel is setting the stage. We can pinpoint his place in history having been taken into exile when King Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem for the first time. We know from other texts that Judah’s king, Jehoiakim, was also taken captive. But Daniel’s focus will be on his own journey in a foreign land.
What do we know about Daniel so far? He must be “strong, healthy, and good-looking” because that’s what King Nebuchadnezzar had requested. Daniel was also smart, “gifted with knowledge and good judgment.” It sounds like the king knew exactly what type of men he wanted surrounding him in his court.
We’re not told how many men were chosen, only that Daniel was one of four named here. It makes sense that they were given Babylonian names if they were expected to serve the Babylonian empire. It sounds like Daniel and the others were in for an intensive three-year preparation for what royal service entailed. I suppose I appreciate the attention to detail and plan to help these newcomers succeed in their new land.
But what about the emotions of being snatched away from home? Daniel doesn’t share any of that with us; we can only imagine. After reading about God’s history from the perspective of the judges, prophets, and kings, we don’t know much about what life in exile looks like. Daniel helps bridge that gap.
Times of transition in a new environment are always challenging. It will be good to follow Daniel’s experiences to get an idea of what exile was like for God’s people. It’s helpful to keep in mind that God allowed his people to be taken to Babylon, even the faithful ones like Daniel.
What’s the message here for us today? For me it’s knowing that God is in control even when we can’t see him. Surely, Daniel and the others didn’t expect what happened to them when they were chosen by a foreign king. It’s how we respond to our adverse circumstances that matters.
Let’s pray. Father, it can be scary living in a world that doesn’t want to acknowledge you. Protect me from evil. Help me to meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and how you have all things in your control. May I stand strong and be a faithful witness to you. May your truth reign supreme. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
