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Response to Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30
The word Deuteronomy is the English equivalent of the Greek word deuteronomion meaning "repetition of the law" In Hebrew, the name of this book is "These are the words" which are the first four words of the book. Although many laws have been repeated to this point, Deuteronomy 21 seems to make a slight turn, almost like small ammendments. Due to the seeming oddity of these rules, I have looked for application to our lives today as children of God - and perhaps their Messianic qualities. In my understanding of scripture, this is a recommended exercise in one's personal life and study.
Sanctity of Life Deuteronomy 21:1-9
The seriousness of murder cannot be escaped given the mystery of an unsolved murder. The entire community is therefore involved in the atonement absolving them of guilt. The leaders of the various towns work together to find what town should take primary responsibility. An unbroken heifer serves as restitution from the town for the life which was lost. The unmowed field may well represent the life unlived. The elders, as representatives of the town, wash their hands in repentance of unknown sin and the Levites, as representatives of God offer absolution and blessing. The running water washes the sin away, and the community is thus purified before their Holy God. If God were so concerned about one mysterious killing, what of the waste of life caused today by the bloodshed of war and abortion? Who is taking responsibility? Who is placing blame?
On the day Jesus died, there was a body found in a field outside the city walls. The victim had fallen prey to the coniving scheme of a group of men who had plotted to take an innocent life. Through bribery and treachery, they had manipulated this man to turn over his dear friend in the dead of night. To date, has anyone come to his defense and requested absolution for his life?
Matthew 27:4-7 "'I have sinned,' he said, 'for I have betrayed innocent blood.''What is that to us?' they replied. 'That's your responsibility.' So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. The chief priests picked up the coins and said, 'It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.' So they decided to use the money to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day"
A Beautiful Wife Deuteronomy 21:10-14
When a country has succombed to war, perhaps morality takes a back seat. Also, sometimes a ruler must govern according to the mindset of his constituency. In this case, we are dealing with a bunch of young male military war heroes. One would hope someone with more common sense would eventually come along and treat women with greater respect. Although Muhammad adopted laws like this one as a military man, Jesus addressed the absurdity of these chauvenist laws in Matthew 19:8-10 "Jesus replied, 'Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery.'"
It is always possible that laws pertaining to male/female refer to the relationship God had with his chosen people Israel also; God chose Israel, yet He had to allow her to spend 40 years recuperating from captivity in Egypt and purifying herself before taking her into the promised land. Yet, after her unfaithfulness, He took no delight in her and allowed her wantoness to possess her and to relieve Him of her presence. She, being humiliated by His abandonment resolved to return to Him following a period of separation.
Jeremiah 3:20-21 "But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you have been unfaithful to me, O house of Israel," declares the Lord. A cry is heard on the barren heights, the weeping and pleading of the people of Israel, because they have perverted their ways and have forgotten the Lord their God.
Concerning the Firstborn Deuteronomy 21:15-17
One cannot help but imagine the roots of this law are grounded in Israel's partiality towards Rachel over Leah. (Genesis 29:30 "Jacob lay with Rachel also, and he loved Rachel more than Leah.") Although Judah was the 4th child of Leah, he received the lion's share of the blessing as his older three brothers experienced a falling out with their Father. Reuben by unchastity (Genesis 39:42, 49:4), and Simeon and Levi by violence (Genesis 34:25, 49:7). Rachel's oldest son was Joseph. In offering his blessing, Jacob chose Ephraim over Manasseh the firstborn, to Joseph's consternation. (Genesis 48:17-19). Eventually, Judah would produce David and Solomon who would govern the 12 tribes in a great era of blessing. Yet after Solomon, 10 nations would be ruled by Jeroboam of Ephraim. The line of Judah, of Leah, would eventually produce the promised child in Jesus Christ. Thus, in a round about way, Deuteronomy 21:15-17 becomes a Messianic Prophecy within the law.
How Many Deaths Deuteronomy 21:18-21
Thank goodness my years of dealing with rebellion are over. And yet, much of my inspiration as a Father comes from loving my children through rebellion. I am quite sure this law did not become a common practice within even the Israeli culture. How different would this be from sacrificing our children on our altar of self -righteousness.
And yet, because of this law, each of us stands guilty before our Heavenly Father and guilty of death. Some may assume there is a narrow gate from judgment, but the fact of the matter is, none is worthy and God is not willing that any should perish. Thank goodness our judge is better at justice and mercy than I tended to be as a Father, knowing the growth phases and inherent virtue of my children.
Isaiah 53:6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Honor in Burial Deuteronomy 21:22-23
He was found guilty of blasphemy as He admitted to the title "Son of God"! Following brutality and torture, he was hung on a tree according to the Roman way. He died in the afternoon before the Sabbath during the feast of unleavened bread.
John 19:31-35 "Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe." (See also Exodus 12:46, Numbers 9:12, Psalm 34:20)
Mark 15:42b-46 "as evening approached, Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph. So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb.
Do Unto Others Deuteronomy 22:1-4
The word "brother" quite clearly does not represent a close family member as verse 2 states: "if you do not know who he is." Therefore Matthew 7:12-14 is quite appropriate in correlation with this passage: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. 'Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.'"
Many are the ways to offend and destroy relationships. Many are the ways to place yourself above your brother (any man). Few there are who are truly able to place others above themselves and find lasting faith, hope, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, meekness, and self control.
Phillipians 2:1-4 "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Show No Pretence Deuteronomy 22:5
As most of the references in scripture regarding man and his helper refer to man's relationship to God as His helper, I will apply the same teaching to this verse. Do not attempt to act as judge and provider of salvation and do not imagine God to be a man or any other part of creation. No idols nor self-righteousness or pride.
Romans 10:5-7 "Moses describes in this way the righteousness that is by the law: "The man who does these things will live by them."But the righteousness that is by faith says: 'Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?' (that is, to bring Christ down) or 'Who will descend into the deep?' (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead)." (see also Deuteronomy 30:12-13)
Calling All Children Deuteronomy 22:6-7
As the Children of Israel were consuming people groups in their conquest of the promised land, they were often allowed to take for themselves the virgin women and children. As we go out into the world to spread the gospel, we are to care for the widow and the orphan, yet we are not to accept established worship practices which would blemish our love and honor unto our Father and our fellowman. There is a purity represented in youth.
Luke 18:15-17 "People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Unfortunately, as one grows, they become ensnared by the sins of the world. This is common to man. Therefore, God continues to refine and mature His people. Each new generation hopefully grows and learns from the failures of their parents. Ephesians 5:5-7 states "For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person - such a man is an idolater - has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. and Romans 1:18 continues "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness"
Therefore, children must necessarily grow beyond the faith of their parents towards the fruit of the Spirit as we long for that day of reunion with God and Man. Jesus reflected that understanding of the coming peace in Matthew:
Matthew 10:34-36 "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law - a man's enemies will be the members of his own household.'
Avoid Bloodshed Deuteronomy 22:8
As a child of God, you represent the embodiment of God to your fellowman. Should they rely on you for support in their faith, you must encourage them in faith, hope, and love.
Luke 17:1-5 "Jesus said to his disciples: 'Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. So watch yourselves.
If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him.'
The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!'"
James also addressed this idea in Acts 15:19 "It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God."
Go Ye Into All the World Deuteronomy 22:9-12
Numbers 15:38-39 "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes.
Eccleasiastes 4:9-12 "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
II Corinthians 6:14-16 "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 16:13 "No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."
I am treating Deuteronomy 22:9-12 in reverse order as my understanding in light of scripture (see the above passages) works better that way.
Through his chosen people, God revealed his guidelines for life on earth as well as his establishment of salvation unto eternal life with Him. Through their understanding, the earth was flat and the four corners often symbolized the ends of the earth. Christ's great commission was to go out into all the world and preach the gospel. Jesus was known as the branch - he had 12 disciples whom he sent out in pairs to preach the good news. They in turn branched out and so on and so on. Similar to many tassles or branches from the root of the true vine. The intent of the child of God should be to spread God's word and His love.
Luke 24:46b-49 "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
And yet, as Children of God, we have many different upbringings and structures of our belief. Some even consider our God to be one of wrath and judgment as another recognizes the Father's Love for and ultimate redemption of His creation. Both seek the repentance and forgiveness of sins. As we go out into the world, it is recommended that we go in teams as referenced in Eccleasiastes 4:9-12 above. Certainly, in our own hearts, we must avoid mixing chastity with unchastity - gifts of the Spirit with sins of the flesh, but also, it is good not to be unequally yoked with those who would disagree with our message. What good would it be to reflect disagreement within the body as we share the the Love of the Father? Too often, mixing seed forfiets the message, entangling the messenger and the receiver.
This does not intone that one is right and one is wrong. Even Paul had to separate from Barnabas over conflicts of interest regarding John Mark. Acts 15:39-40: "They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord."
Do You Take This Man Deuteronomy 22:13-21
Ezekiel 16:48-52 "As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, your sister Sodom and her daughters never did what you and your daughters have done. 'Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy. They were haughty and did detestable things before me. Therefore I did away with them as you have seen. Samaria did not commit half the sins you did. You have done more detestable things than they, and have made your sisters seem righteous by all these things you have done. Bear your disgrace, for you have furnished some justification for your sisters. Because your sins were more vile than theirs, they appear more righteous than you. So then, be ashamed and bear your disgrace, for you have made your sisters appear righteous."
Like it or not, God often refers to mankind as a woman in their relationship with Him. Not only as an individual, but as communities, nations, faiths, and humanity. As He walks along the road and accepts you from your nest, (vs. 6), He will test you to see whether your parents prepared you as His bride. Your parents will be called to account regarding your worthiness as a helper fit for Him.
Genesis 2:22-24: "the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, 'This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called woman, for she was taken out of man.' For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.
Few may realize the Messianic text revealed in this story. No daughter of man was found worthy of the Father. No tokens of virginity could be found. The Old Testament is filled with stories of spurned lovers - covenants broken - God's displeasure with man. But then, one was found worthy! A "Son of Man" was found worthy to become the bride of Heaven itself. The God of Heaven came down and declared "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh. Her name shall be changed to Emmanuel "God with Us." Through His tokens of virginity - His dedication and vows before the Lord His God, Christ became our salvation and God has become one with man.
The obverse of this prophecy is also true: God sent His bride to the people of Israel. Yet they spurned her, making shameful charges against her as She had not followed their law. They cast lots for her garments and paid a guilt price for their field of blood. And yet, she was found worthy and remained his wife, bringing glory to her Father and theirs for all of eternity.
Another side of this prophecy symbolizes Jesus Christ carrying the iniquity of man. Although Israel refused the bride and have been found guilty of false witness, He suffered the whipping of verse 18. She was deemed unworthy, despite her purity and was brought outside the city gate and crucified by the entire community. She thus became our scapegoat. The firstborn of many brethren.
Love The Lord Thy God Deuteronomy 22:22-30
"You shall purge the evil from the midst of you." Deuteronomy 22:21
Exodus 20:5; "You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God" If we have commited our lives unto God, we must not give our hearts to the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, or the prides of life. We must serve no other gods.
Exodus 20:7 "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name." If we carry His name "Child of God" "Christian" "Jew" "Muslim", we must serve Him according to His law, and not our own. "In Him is Love - and that Love must be the Love of Men; In Him there is no evil intent at all" (paraphrase of John 1:4-5, I John 1:5-2:14)
If we are unfaithful to God, we will experience despair in separation. If we cause disbelief or taint the belief of one of the least of these, his children within the Kingdom of God, we will both suffer despair and separation if our fellow child of God does not seek the help of, or the will of God. If we would cause an unbeliever to imagine anything other than the Love of God, thereby violating a soul desired by God, we will again experience confusion and separation, yet God will not hold their disbelief against them, for they never knew Him to begin with.
When God lays His claim on one of his children and enters their heart, he will never leave them nor forsake them. As their brothers and sisters of the faith, we must never challenge their betrothel, nor judge their heart towards God.
I have attempted to attribute a spiritual dimension to the laws of Deuteronomy 21-22 requesting inspiration from God. I am but a man and do not imply that these words of mine are without error. Yet, I hope they might have enriched your soul. As earthly rules, I find these within Deuteronomy quite lax, chauvenistic, and dishonorable to both the males and females involved, and yet, I am limited in my understanding. However, I believe that if you consider yourself a child of God and intend to corrupt a virgin without mutual concent and a marriage vow, shame on you. You cannot read such a passage and imagine you have found justification for immorality - it will not stand up to scripture and you will suffer the consequences throughout your lifetime.
Response to Luke 9:51-10:12
Hostilities Rebuked and Forgiven Luke 9:51-56
http://www.bible-history.com/geography/ancient-israel/samaria.html On this map, Samaria is found between Galilee and Judah between the Jordan River and the Mediteranian Sea.
Note the hostilities throughout this passage. The Samaritans did not want to associate with Jesus because He was heading toward Jerusalem. In response, the sons of thunder call for God's quick judgment. Upon a quick reading, one may wonder whom Jesus rebuked - James and John or the people who refused him. Thankfully, the footnote for the verse provides a good answer as some manuscripts add "And he said, 'You do not know what kind of spirit you are of, for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them." It will be interesting to note in our study of "John" whether his inbred hostilities are reflected in His writing.
http://www.bible-history.com/geography/maps/map_canaan_tribal_portions.html '12 Tribal Portions'
Although people from throughout the region witnessed Jesus ministry, we have found most of it was around the Galilean side of the sea of Galilee which had been the posession of the tribe of Naphtali. Across the sea of Galilee was a society which was heavily Greek, considering the 10 cities of the Decapolis. This had been occupied by Manasseh. Therefore, most of Jesus life was spent in the Israeli part of the Kingdom and He generally only visited the Holy City on Holiday.
Realizing this connection with Naphtali, the omens of Israel and Moses regarding her come to light!:
Genesis 49:21 "Naphtali is a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns. (or ...free, he utters beautiful words)
Deuteronomy 33:23 "Naphtali is abounding with the favor of the Lord and is full of his blessing;"
Cares Challenge Commission Luke 9:57-62
Missionaries who go out into all the world leave much behind. The cost is great!
1. They must leave houses and lands.
2. They must leave family celebrations and observances.
3. There is no turning back.
On number 3, (verse 62), I was reminded of the military service described in Deuteronomy 20 from our April 1st blog.
1. Do not be afraid if you are sure God approves of what you are doing.
2 Receive blessing upon your commission from the family of God
3 The fearful warrior is demoralizing to the team. God does not require large armies, just dedicated men.
4 Before you enter any battle, establish your peace. If accepted, put those people to work for you.
5 Know that the field which lies before you represents God's Kingdom and is not the enemies.
6 Do not destroy the providence of God - seek out the fruits of His Spirit already at work within men.
Commissioning 72 apostles Luke 10:1-12
Verse 1 references teamwork as noted in the blog on Deuteronomy 22:12 (April 2) with reference to Numbers 15:38-39
The 72 were sent out to prepare the way - perhaps even setting up for the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. As with the commissioning of the 12 in Luke 9:1-6, they were told to go with the clothes on their back. They were to offer Shalom as they greeted the brethren. This became a bit of a catch phrase allowing the missionary to know where they should go. This is often used in Mass today "Peace be with you"; with the response; "And also with you." Paul began most if not all of his letters by offering the peace of God: "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 1:7)
There were two messages to be given to the towns. If they found acceptance, they were to pronounce blessing on that place "'The kingdom of God is near you." (verse 9). If they were refused, "Even the dust of your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near."
As any salesman is trained, there must be a knowledge that there will be success and there will be failure. Many people are not going to want what you are selling. Jesus, as the master, knows many hearts are not ready to accept the Kingdom and the Love of the Father. He spoke these words to those He commissioned within their mindset (that they had something to sell) and to motivate them through the depressions of despisement. However, He knew well of the coming judgment of Sodom and of that town. He knew Ezekiel 16:52-63 and now you shall too:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y28ubxxjXHQ&feature=related 'Here I Am'
"Bear your disgrace, for you have furnished some justification for your sisters. Because your sins were more vile than theirs, they appear more righteous than you. So then, be ashamed and bear your disgrace, for you have made your sisters appear righteous.
However, I will restore the fortunes of Sodom and her daughters and of Samaria and her daughters, and your fortunes along with them, so that you may bear your disgrace and be ashamed of all you have done in giving them comfort." (personal insert-but Lord, did we give them comfort?) "And your sisters, Sodom with her daughters and Samaria with her daughters, will return to what they were before; and you and your daughters will return to what you were before. You would not even mention your sister Sodom in the day of your pride, before your wickedness was uncovered. Even so, you are now scorned by the daughters of Edom (Aram) and all her neighbors and the daughters of the Philistines - all those around you who despise you. You will bear the consequences of your lewdness and your detestable practices, declares the Lord.
This is what the Sovereign Lord says: 'I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant. Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. .Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your sisters, both those who are older than you and those who are younger I will give them to you as daughters, but not on the basis of my covenant with you. So I will establish my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the Lord. Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign Lord.'"
It is time to wipe the dirt off our hearts and embrace our fellowman. God is waiting.
Response to Psalm 74:1-23
As with the "sons of Korah", there were the "sons of Asaph" mentioned in Ezra 2:41 and Nehemiah 3:10. As this Psalm quite candidly displays qualities of being written during or after the Babylonian captivity, it seems doubtful that it was written by Asaph during the reign of King David. It was fairly common in Israeli literature to apply a writing to a forefather.
This Psalm is entitled "A Maskil of Asaph" http://www.bible-history.com/faussets/M/Maschil/ Faussets Bible Dictionary describes "Maschil" as "instruction" and states "Gesenius and Roediger explain 'any sacred song relating to divine things, whose end it is to promote wisdom and piety.'"
In a chronological reading of the Old Testament, the books of Ezra and Nehemiah mentioned above come after the 70 years of Babylonian captivity. Ezekiel and Daniel take place during the exile and Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi take place after the exile. The rest of the canonical Old Testament, (except, perhaps Psalms 74 and others like them), takes place before the exile which took place during the 6th century BC.
This Psalm serves as a memorial, or a history lesson to those who would sing or chant it for centuries to come. Not only is it an act of worship and prayer, but a reminder to the people of Israel of their great heritage. Unfortunately, I have some concern with the humility before God regarding the tone at the end.
My God My God Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me (In consideration of Psalm 74:1-11)
Even in the remembrance of redemption from Egypt in verses 1-2, one may remember the anguish of the people who that day experienced it. Verse 2 moves quickly past the age of the Torah into the promised land and the realization of a promise fulfilled in Zion. Verse 3 sees the destruction of Solomon's beautiful Temple, designed by his father David, built over the course of 11 years as recorded in I Kings chapter 5-6 and II Chronicles chapters 2-4. The destruction of the temple during the reign of Nebuchadrezzar, (Nebuchadnezzar) King of Babylon is recorded in II Kings 25:9, II Chronicles 36:19, Psalm 74:3-7, Jeremiah 39:8, Jeremiah 52:13, Lamentations 2:7. Prophesies regarding that day can be found in Amos 2:5, Micah 3:12 and elsewhere.
It is quite possible that the Psalmist and the prophets during the captivity were not in communication with one another. Although Daniel seems to be aware of Jeremiah's prophecy of 70 years (See Daniel 9:1-2, Jeremiah 25:11-12, Jeremiah 29:10), the Psalmist seems not aware of these nor Isaiah 23:15-18. Thankfully, for us today, we have much scripture to glean as we live out our lives in sickness or in health. It is good to stay in the word, especially at those times we feel God is far off. Generally, there is something we need to change to bring Him close again. I generally find Him waiting for me to change something in my life.
Hope From the Past to Press On Toward the Future (Reflections on Psalm 74:12-17)
Even for the Psalmist, this is where he finds his hope, in the strength of a rich history of experiences of faith and witness.
Psalm 44:4 "You are my King and my God, who decrees victories for Jacob."
Exodus 14:21 "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided,"
Genesis 3:15 "I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leviathan
Exodus 17:6 "'I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.' So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel."
Genesis 1:14 "And God said, 'Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years,'"
Genesis 8:22 "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease."
A Cry is Heard On the Barren Heights (Personal Reflection on Psalm 74:18-23)
As I considered the final portion of this Psalm (verses 18-23), the word impious came to mind. And yet, verse 22 speaks of those who would use exactly that tone. I find this quite often in the Psalms where the tone of the Psalmist is often condemned within the same Psalm. I have often found when I am struggling with a family member condemning them for some sort of behavior, they suddenly condemn me for the same behavior before I open my mouth. Perhaps therein lies a lesson. Perhaps in our frustrations with others, we are witnessing the voice of God regarding our own actions.
The reason the people of Israel were in distress is because they had abandoned their God. He had waited hundreds of years before removing them from the Holy land. Yet, before even one generation had passed, they were accusing Him of forgetting them, ignoring quite explicit prophecies of their coming redemption.
I find the same attitude too often today as people speak to God as though He were far off. Yet, it is mankind that has abandoned God. He will not return due to our impious demands for His action, yet if we would humble ourselves even halfway towards sackcloth and ashes, I believe He would certainly take notice! As I see it, I have two choices. Either walk in constant humility as such a wretched man that I am, or celebrate my salvation in Christ as I lift up other men to walk with God in His full acceptance and love. Perhaps a life exemplifying both would be most appropriate.
Unfortunately, too often, it is the children of God who scoff and revile a God of Love. Too often it is the children of God who care about the poor of third world countries while condemning the poor within their own. Too often it is the children of God who reject the gospel of peace and fill the earth with violence. Too often it is the children of God who shame the poor and blame them for their own distress as they pray "thy Kingdom come."
Dare we ask for God to plead His cause? Dare we face the consequenses, should He again refine His children? Dare we question His Love and protection of mankind? Dare we call attention to His children's clamor, the complaints of His annointed which go up continually?
May we humbly bow http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rjmBNKk-4w&feature=related
"A cry is heard on the barren heights, the weeping and pleading of the people of Israel, because they have perverted their ways and have forgotten the Lord their God." (Jeremiah 3:21)
Response to Proverbs 12:11
No one said faith would make life easy. Don't forget the importance of hard work. May God richly bless the work of our hands. Our God Saves, He does not reward laziness.
Until Tomorrow
Rick
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