Relevant Text: 1 Chron. 28:9
Full Text: 1 Chron. 28:1-29:20 + 2 Sam 23:1-7
Hurricanes | As it turned out, Hurricane Irene wasn’t all that bad for NYC. Yes, there was damage and inconvenience but – compared to Katrina in New Orleans or Ivan in Pensacola (my hometown) – Irene was mild [1]. No matter its weakness, however, as we anticipated its landing, Irene caused some of us to think about life, meaning, providence and love.
Legacy | As David neared the end of his life, he was thinking about similar things. He wanted to make sure his son Solomon sought God’s kingdom: “Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you” [2]. And he wanted to make sure his people pursued God’s presence. So, he encouraged them to contribute to the Temple by telling them about the great riches he had already given. Knowing that God had inspired their love and generosity, David thanked God: “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand” [3].
Christ | David didn’t all of a sudden decide he was passionately in love with God at the end of his life. Rather, throughout his life, God shaped David’s heart to love Him more and more and to know that everything came from Him – even his offerings. Most of us are the same. We may have stops and starts, but God uses our experiences to teach us throughout our lives that He’ll be our help and refuge, joy and delight, savior and shepherd. And, thankfully, He has promised that He won’t stop working in us until He’s done: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” [4].
Prayer | Lord, Although the circumstances of our lives are unpredictable and confusing, You are constant and faithful. We may waver in our faith and love for You, but You aren’t finished with us yet. Give us opportunities and experiences that draw us to You and shape our hearts to increasingly love and know You. Help us to cherish all that You are and all that You give us, especially salvation in Christ. Amen.
