[65] So Solomon held the feast at that time, and all Israel with him, a great assembly, from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days. [66] On the eighth day he sent the people away, and they blessed the king and went to their homes joyful and glad of heart for all the goodness that the LORD had shown to David his servant and to Israel his people. - 1Ki 8:65-66 ESV
These five chapters are jaw dropping passages in the Scriptures. The construction of the temple of God and then building of Solomon's house were an unbelievable undertaking.
However, I am most struck by Solomon's prayer in chapter eight. It is a prayer filled with the plea for forgiveness. Solomon, in his God-given wisdom knew that forgiveness is what mankind needs most. Solomon prays for not only Israel, but that all nations would be the recipient of the forgiveness of God.
The feast was grand as the people rejoiced at all that God had done. As they go home they are joyful and glad of heart because of the goodness of God.
It is sobering that within a few short years it will all change. Solomon will choose to go against the counsel and wisdom of God and will amass horses and women. His heart will turn from the One true God and he will no longer be whole-hearted. As a result, the kingdom will be divided and will eventually fall along with the buildings he had built.
No comments:
Post a Comment