April 9, 2023 - 2 Chronicles 1-5

This morning, maybe just some thoughts as I read . . . When asked what Solomon would have God grant him, Solomon did not ask for riches and such, but for wisdom. God said to the king, that because he had asked only for wisdom, “I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like” (1:12). Can’t help but think of Jesus’ words: “Seek first the kingdom of God and all these other things will be added to you.”

As Solomon was preparing to build the temple, he asked: “But who is able to build him a house, since heaven, even highest heaven, cannot contain him? Who am I to build him a house for him, except as a place to make offerings before him?” (2:6) In Jeremiah’s day, the people had a different view, i.e., that the temple was actually the place where God dwelled, and they asked, “Would God destroy his own home?” Foolish! Solomon had it right! Yes, the temple was important and it was the place where God met with his people but our God is in no way confined to any physical space. In Jeremiah 23:24 the Lord declares, “Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? declares the Lord. Do I not fill heaven and earth?” As he spoke for the Lord, I wonder if Jeremiah had in mind David’s testimony: “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. (Psalm 139:7-10). And, yet, a manger held him! What wonder!

See the eternal Son of God

A mortal Son of Man,

Now dwelling in an earthly clod

Whom Heaven cannot contain!

Stand amazed, ye heavens, look at this!

See the Lord of earth and skies

Low humbled to the dust He is,

And in a manger lies! --Charles Wesley (18th century)