Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Go, inquire of the Lord for me, for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that has been found; for great is the wrath of the Lord that is kindled against us, because our ancestors did not obey the words of this book, to do according to all that is written concerning us.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, November 27, 2023
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
Does God punish us for our ignorance? I honestly don’t think so. I do think ignorance has its consequences, but they’re not divine punishment. King Josiah had no idea this book—likely Deuteronomy—even existed, much less was supposed to be guiding the actions of his entire nation. When he heard about all the things the people were doing that they shouldn’t and all the things they weren’t doing that they should, he was understandably flabbergasted. Of course, attributing all the bad luck his kingdom had had for generations to God’s punishment for their ignorance might have been a leap. On the other hand, finding the book must have given him incredible hope. Here was a guide for how to be God’s people! Here were the laws to follow spelled out in excruciating detail! He was already a “good king” in God’s eyes, but now he could offer his people a new way of being in the world, of being in relationship with God and with one another. I can only imagine the excitement and joy he must have felt.
I’ve had many such “aha” moments in my life, when I’ve come across some text or resource or scrap of profound wisdom in a sermon or song or something I’ve read. I’ve had my eyes opened to new possibilities, when I’d been convinced everything was stuck the way it was. It’s powerful to suddenly be moved beyond ignorance to clarity, and I believe God is fully present in those moments, cheering me on.
When have I had an “aha” moment that has moved me from ignorance to action?
