READING: 1 Kings 8-9, John 5:1-29
The people of God gathered in Jerusalem for the dedication of the temple, and Solomon prayed a marvelous prayer of commitment and blessing. What most captures me today is not only the glory of God that falls on that place (so much so the priests could not enter the temple), but also the recurrent reminders that God’s people would need at times to repent of their failures—and that God would hear and forgive them. These phrases within Solomon’s prayer make that point clear:
- “May you hear in your dwelling place in heaven. May you hear and forgive” (1 Kgs 8:30)
- “. . . may you hear in heaven and forgive the sin of your people Israel” (1 Kgs 8:34)
- “. . . may you hear in heaven and forgive the sin of your servants and your people Israel” (1 Kgs 8:36)
- “. . . may you hear in heaven, your dwelling place, and may you forgive, act, and give to everyoneaccording to all their ways, since you know each heart” (1 Kgs 8:39)
- “May you forgive your people who sinned against you and all their rebellions against you” (1 Kgs 8:50)
How gracious God is to dwell among us and invite us into His presence, knowing just how unworthy we are!
PRAYER: “God, I am not worthy even to speak to You today. Thank You for Your incredible mercy.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Throughout the day, seek God’s forgiveness immediately when needed.
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Kings 10-11, John 5:30-6:15