Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“So the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold. He said to the people, “You have gone up to Jerusalem long enough. Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” 29He set one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan.”
NL Daily Devotion for Tuesday, October 31, 2023
by Daniel D. Maurer, Clergy Stuff
Main Idea: Idolatry and Innovation: The Perils of Convenience
In this passage, we see Jeroboam, the newly crowned king of the northern Kingdom of Israel, making a calculated decision. Fearing that his subjects might return to Rehoboam if they continue to worship in Jerusalem, he sets up alternative places of worship in Bethel and Dan, complete with golden calves.
Jeroboam's actions are pragmatic from a political standpoint but deeply flawed from a spiritual perspective. He prioritizes convenience and control over fidelity to God's commandments. The golden calves are not just idols; they are symbols of a diluted faith, tailored to suit political needs.
This story serves as a cautionary tale for us today. In an age where convenience often trumps commitment, it's easy to make compromises in our faith journey. Whether it's skipping worship for more leisure time or adopting beliefs that align with our lifestyle rather than scripture, the temptation to take shortcuts in our spiritual life is ever-present.
Jeroboam's innovation had long-term consequences, leading Israel further away from God and setting the stage for its eventual downfall. Similarly, our choices have ripple effects, impacting not just our relationship with God but also influencing those around us.
Jeroboam's golden calves (and not the ones on his legs) serve as a reminder that convenience should never come at the cost of our relationship with God, and that true faith often requires us to take the road less traveled.
