Readings for today: 1 Chronicles 3-5
Several years ago, I ran across a brilliant insight from Old Testament theologian, John Walton, who wrote, “Though the Bible was written for us, it was not written to us.” This is critical to keep in mind as we read. For example, in today’s reading, the audience is very likely the Jewish community who returned from exile in Babylon. It is not being written down as it happens but as God’s people reflect back on their history. These former exiles would have been desperate to reclaim their tribal identities. They were looking to restore the worshipping life of Israel and the rebuilding of their nation. Tracing their lineage back to the patriarchs and kings of old would have provided a deep sense of belonging and a sense that God had not forgotten His promises to them. It’s a great reminder that “exile”, in whatever form that takes, is not the final word in our story.
When I meet with people for counseling, I often remind them they are not defined by their worst day or worst moments. They are not defined by their guilt or shame. They are not defined by their failures and mistakes. The reality is that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The key is to return to Him in repentance. Humble ourselves before Him. Submit once again to His will and to His way and in due time, He will lift us up again. God is faithful. He never leaves us or forsakes us. He never abandons us to our fate. This is the main thrust of the message of all these genealogies. The people of God literally tracing the faithfulness of God throughout their history. We should be able to look back on our own lives and our own families and our own histories and see the same dynamic in play.
Readings for tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 6, Psalms 36, 39, 77-78