Today’s Reading

II Samuel 23-24; Luke 22:31-53

Selected Verses

The God of Israel has spoken;
the Rock of Israel has said to me:
When one rules justly over men,
ruling in the fear of God,
he dawns on them like the morning light,
like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning,
like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth. II Samuel 23:3-4

But this is your hour, and the power of darkness. Luke 22:53b

Reflections

As David neared the end of his life, God reassured him. Just governance would not be overlooked. The Lord blesses the king who rules justly, that is, in the fear of God. The despot is a law to himself. The tyrant recognizes no higher authority than himself. He rules without fear of a final judgment day before a completely informed Eternal Deity (Romans 2:16).

The Lord’s blessing on the god-fearing leader is described in terms analogous to beautiful weather and an abundant harvest. There is sun and rain in just the right amount resulting in lush crops. Human hearts fill with energy and joy in the anticipation of a good day and a good future as they live under just leadership.

By contrast, in the darkest moment of human history, hard-hearted, treacherous rulers surrounded the Son of God in the Garden of Gethsemane. They came to escort Him to His death. They epitomized unjust rulers, lacking any fear of God.

Unsurprised Jesus awaited them. He spoke directly and fearlessly showing them that their actions were cowardly, done under cloak of night, away from the crowds of attentive listeners who sought His teaching. He made it clear that they operated only by permission of God the Father Who allowed them their hour to act and freedom to carry out the dark deeds they had contrived.

Think about it

Unjust rulers have their day, but God will bring justice on them and blessing on those who have ruled justly. Woe to the ruler who ignores his date with the Judge of the whole earth.

Give thanks. God remembers just rulers and punishes unjust ones. Their hour and power will end. Whatever your role in this world exercise your authority in the fear of God.

© 2017 John A Carroll Used by permission