Reading
SAA Notes
Manasseh is born after Hezekiah’s recovery. Hezekiah’s response to the prophecy of the coming destruction of Jerusalem and of his own children, “as long as it doesn’t happen in my lifetime, that’s all right”, is a sad revelation of his later spiritual state and lethargy.
SJA Notes
* Mighty God, how sweet are Your words to our taste, sweeter than honey to our mouths!
“For he rebuilt the high places that Hezekiah his father had destroyed.”
In one generation all the good that Hezekiah had achieved was undone. Idolatry returned in force, in step with false worship and child sacrifice.
“Moreover, Manasseh shed very much innocent blood, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to the other.”
This is a strong word, a hard thing to dwell on.
God’s response is clear,
“Behold, I am bringing upon Jerusalem and Judah such a disaster that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle.”
These are not empty words. We know what happens. The northern kingdoms were already dispersed, and now Judah comes into focus.
They are destroyed, cast down, scattered. God’s people in the wind.
For us – It is good to be reminded that god brought another event, one of great good and hope, that has great effect on the ears who hear.
Jesus’ act of sacrifice, His unfailing love, His obedience to the cross – These are truths that cannot be pushed aside.
You either reject Him or follow Him.
* Gracious God,
Thank You for Jesus!
Thank You for giving us a hope beyond this world.
Thank You that You are the one who continues to build Your church – It is Your body, Your people, You are our God and not the other way around!
Thank You Lord!
Amen.