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2 Chronicles 35:23-26 Lament for the last good king - Day 364

Good morning fellow exiles and pilgrims,

One more day of devotions.  We are indeed exiles and pilgrims in this world as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.  The 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks can serve as a reminder that this world is not our home.

Blessings,

Jeff

The lamentations for Josiah written by Jeremiah.  However, the book of Lamentations does not include any reference to Josiah as they are focused on the fall of Jerusalem.  While these lost lamentations were "made the rule" there are only 4 more kings and none of them were good like Josiah and none died in Jerusalem.  The phrase "to this day" generally refers to the time of the author (post exile).  Taken together, it may be that these laments were for the last good king and during the exile the people were longing for the next good king. Zerubbabel in a way was the next good king as temple and Jerusalem were rebuilt. But Jesus truly was the next king and He was not just good but perfect.

As I reflect on the time between Jesus ascension and  His return, are we not somewhat like the Jews mourning over the loss of the bridegroom but eagerly awaiting His return for his bride, the Church?  Of course, having the Holy Spirit is better for us than have Jesus physically present (John 16:7).  But waiting for His return is a prominent aspect throughout the New Testament.

WSC question 102 says part of "your kingdom come" is that the kingdom of glory may be hastened.  So I am challenged to remember Him but also to look forward to His return.


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