Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Now the word of the Lord came to Solomon, ‘Concerning this house that you are building, if you will walk in my statutes, obey my ordinances, and keep all my commandments by walking in them, then I will establish my promise with you, which I made to your father David. I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake my people Israel.’ So Solomon built the house, and finished it.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, October 31, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
It’s not about the house. Sure, as a symbol of God’s presence with God’s people, the temple is critical. But God doesn’t live in a building made with hands. What matters isn’t the brick-and-mortar structure. It’s about the relationship.
God’s relationship with God’s people is a covenant relationship. God is right here with us, fully present. God loves us, knows us, and cares for us. God provides with abundance all that is needed for everyone to flourish. God forgives us and invites us to strive for holiness. Our part of the covenant is to be God’s people. To listen to the gifts of God’s words, to follow in the ways of God’s justice and mercy, to share in the joy of all of God’s creation. None of this requires a house.
But for God’s people at this time in history, a proclamation of fidelity had to be made. This temple would serve not just as proof of God’s adherence to God’s part of the covenant, but as a sign of the people’s adherence to their part. It would become a sacred space in which to make public declaration of love and faithfulness to God every day. Solomon knew such a building would be the centerpiece of his kingdom, and would unite God’s people in a whole new way.
So Solomon built the house, and finished it.
Are there physical objects or places in my life that are central to my relationship with God?
