Read: 2 Chronicles 30:1-31:21; Romans 15:1-22; Psalm 25:1-15; Proverbs 20:13-15
Hezekiah did a radical reform in the nation. It is incredible that his father was such an evil man who practiced all sorts of idolatry, but as soon as Hezekiah became king, he turned the whole nation around in two months.
Hezekiah and his princes met in Jerusalem and agreed to make an announcement that they would celebrate the Passover for the first time in years. They couldn’t do it on the appointed time because they priests were not consecrated yet, but the law made provisions if it was impossible to celebrate the Passover in the first month, is said they could do it in the second month.
They sent messengers about the Passover to the cities of Ephraim, Manasseh and all the way to Zebulun. Many men laughed when they heard the announcement, but some humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem.
When the people arrived they helped to remove all the altars that had been set up to worship other gods and took threw them into the Kidron brook. The priests slaughtered the Passover lamb on the 14th day of the month. When the priests who had not consecrated themselves saw this, they were convicted to get cleansed so they could act as priests. Many of the people had also not consecrated themselves so the priest sprinkled them with blood and Hezekiah prayed that God would not hold it against them. The Lord heard Hezekiah’s prayer and the people were covered.
It was such a success that the people stayed another week to celebrate and offer their sacrifices to the Lord. There was great joy in Jerusalem like in the days of Solomon. God heard their singing and was pleased.
When it was time to go home, the people went throughout the cities in Judah and broke down the Asherim poles and all the idol altars throughout all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephriam and Manasseh.
Hezekiah set up the divisions of the priests so the house of the Lord would continue to offer sacrifices to the Lord every day and on all the appointed times. He followed the law of Moses exactly and the people gave abundantly to the house of the Lord. They had more than enough to provide for the priests and Levite, so Hezekiah had them prepare chambers where they could store all the contributions.
In Romans, Paul encourages us to live like Jesus did who was more concerned about others than himself. He bore our reproach, so we should endure with courage every day we live. Our goal should be to live in harmony with one another so that our lives glorify Jesus and the Lord.
It had been prophesied that the hope of the Gentiles would come out of Israel. Paul is proud that his ministry that is built on nothing but Christ. His calling is to the Gentiles so that those who have never heard of Jesus might know what he did for them and how they can trust him and become God’s children.
Lord, may our lives be built on You. May we fulfill out destiny everyday of loving and living Christ. May we fear you and be called your friend.
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