Today I read 2 Chronicles 30, in which Hezekiah had people observe the Passover. Today I considered that a leader does have the ability to encourage others to worship and celebrate God, leading to people turning from idols.
Observing the Passover
A king encouraged the people to worship God resulting in the people being incentivized to destroy places worshiping false gods (2 Chronicles 30:1-31:1). Hezekiah, king of Judah, spoke with his counselors, the princes, and the congregation in Jerusalem about keeping the Passover. The proclamation to come keep the Passover was sent to all of Israel and Judah along with letters from the king and his princes. The king told them to not be like their fathers and turn to God so God’s wrath turns away from them. Some scorned and mocked the proclamation. Others including people from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun went to Jerusalem. They had not kept the Passover in a long time and some were not cleansed but Hezekiah prayed for the Lord to pardon them. God did and healed the people. Those in Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days and extended it another seven days. Jerusalem was filled with great joy. Afterward all of Israel present at the feast went to cities in Judah and destroyed the images and worshiping places for false gods before going home. We should remember that the leaders we want to follow should incentivize people to worship God and get rid of the idols in their lives.
Questions and Thoughts for Today
God can take us as we are and did so even back then by heeding the prayer request of Hezekiah. In those times not being ritually cleansed before going to God’s temple for Passover could result in God’s wrath. Hezekiah prayed and God granted his prayer for leniency. Even if you feel unclean or unworthy and hesitate about going to God for help or guidance, look for those that will stand in the gap to pray for you. God does want you to come to him and be his child.
Who would you recommend to pray for others or ask to pray for you?
We see a leader, Hezekiah, that turned more people toward God and his actions resulted in people feeling joy and true dedication. What leaders both set an example and encouraged you to follow God to the point of you feeling great joy?