This period of Israel’s history gives me whiplash. No matter how great things go once they return to the LORD, no one stays there long. I think the most alarming to me is Joash turning on Jehoiada’s counsel and children. He goes from baby Anakin to Darth Vadar the moment opportunity arises. 

It reminds me of how quickly I can go to “the dark place” when things seem confusing or out of hand. Don’t I remember the faithfulness of God? Aren’t I living proof of His grace, generosity and goodness? Why do I despair the moment I can’t see around the corner? Because, deep down, I’m a little twerp like Joash, only successful when I’m hemmed in by God’s presence and the counsel of His saints. 

Why is it we so desperately need the body of Christ? Why does Paul implore us to not give up meeting together? Because following God is a team sport and every way there is to obey Him presupposes others: Love one another. Forgive one another. Bear one another’s burdens. Be hospitable, etc.

Joash makes the change when suddenly these officers are bowing before him. Wow, how nice, my pride enjoys this. Sure, let’s do your thing because you are a fan of me. I don’t have to listen to that old guy anymore. I’m The Man! Yeah, well buckle up, because the king of Damascus is going to swiftly become God’s agent for taking you out. 

We need each other. We need to stay humble and pursue wisdom. I think my generation is capable of great things and some of that will involve challenging old practices, but I hope and pray we don’t go too far and throw out our Jehoiadas at the same time. 

I still need to seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness. Let’s do that together today.

-Bethany