Daily Reading: 22 November

Something to read

Josiah did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the way of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.

- 2 Kings 22:2 from full reading 2 Kings 22:1-10.

Something to think about

Saint Francis of Assisi thought God was calling him to repair buildings and found a deeper and richer vocation in the renewal of the people. Josiah similarly began with the task of renovations around the temple and discovered a quite different challenge.

Francis and Josiah tried to be faithful in the smaller tasks and they led to great works which have echoed through time.

They approached these smaller tasks as good in themselves and not as a gateway to some great future.

I am slowly beginning to learn that the words: ‘The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it’ (Psalm 24:1), give an opportunity to look for simple ways of being faithful to God just for the sake of faithfulness to him.

Climate change may be too much for me to get my head round – though our campaigns pages can help with that – but I can start with the things around me and learn to take care of the Earth’s resources.

Josiah’s reforms are the highlight of this part of 2 Kings. They could have been the pattern for the next generation. Once again, God had to rescue his people from themselves.

Something to do

If you sense God is calling you, be ready to take action even when the outcome is unclear. Be prepared to revise and refine your actions.

Something to pray

Heavenly Father, be at work within me so that I may truly seek first the kingdom of God and leave the final outcome in your hand.

Today’s reading has been provided by Jim Stewart. At the time of writing Jim had led a church in Tunbridge Wells over the last 21 years. Together with his wife they have been pleased to serve with people with a heart for evangelism, social action and worldwide mission.