JOSIAH CELEBRATES THE PASSOVER
Keywords 35:18
The Passover had not been
observed like this in Israel since the days of the prophet Samuel; and none of
the kings of Israel had ever celebrated such a Passover as did Josiah, with the
priests, the Levites and all Judah and Israel who were there with the people of
Jerusalem.
1. Josiah celebrates the Passover (1-19)
After reading what
the law required, Josiah mobilizes the nation to celebrate the Passover as
never before. First, he restores the ark’s place in the temple, meaning it had
been moved (3). He commands the priests to serve as God intended. Next, Josiah
sets the example in giving generously and providing for the sacrifices and the
other leaders follow. They slaughter the Passover sacrifices for the people
until nightfall, with all the priests, gatekeepers and musicians serving
wholeheartedly. Such corporate worship leads to a spiritual awakening,
assurance, growth, and joy.
2. Josiah dies in
battle (20-27)
At the end of his
life, Josiah goes against God’s word, fights Pharaoh Neco in battle, and is
needlessly killed. Staying out of fights is wise. Jeremiah and the nation
lament his death and remember his great acts.
Prayer Lord, help me to
follow your word, set an example of worshiping communally, and avoid needless
battles.
One Word Worship the Lord wholeheartedly
No comments:
Post a Comment