Grace

Today's Readings: Jeremiah 5:20-31, 6:1-30; 2 Kings 22:3-20; 2 Chronicles 34:8-28

Highlighted Verses and my thoughts:

"But go to the king of Judah who sent you to seek the Lord and tell him: 'This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the message you have just heard: You were sorry and humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I said against this city and its people -- that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the Lord.  So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace.  You will not see the disaster aI am going to bring on this city.'"  So they took her message back to the king." 2 Kings 22:18-20 and 2 Chronicles 34:26-28

During the restoration of the Temple, the high priest found The Book of the Law in the temple.  When it was read, King Josiah learned of the disobedience of his ancestors and that they had not been doing everything that was required by the book written by Moses.  He immediately tore his clothes in despair and sought after guidance from the prophet Huldah in Jerusalem.  Above was her response to him.  

This portion of the reading was prefaced by the Jeremiah verses, which described the rebellion of the people, their multiple warnings, continued rejection of the Lord's way, and warning of invasion and destruction that would come because of those decisions.  But, now we see that because of King Josiah's repentance and desire to make the necessary changes to follow what was written in the Book of the Law, the Lord gave him a second chance.  The disaster would not take place until after his death.

My response to God: Dear God, I give praises to you and am in awe of your mighty power.  Thank you for your grace and forgiveness.  Help me to stay in your will and keep myself open to your messages through your Word.