Focus

Are you tired? Take this time to rest. Relax every part of yourself. Breathe slower. Be ready for what God has before you today.

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Read

1 Kings 5 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Now King Hiram of Tyre sent his servants to Solomon, when he heard that they had anointed him king in place of his father; for Hiram had always been a friend to David. Solomon sent word to Hiram, saying, “You know that my father David could not build a house for the name of the Lord his God because of the warfare with which his enemies surrounded him, until the Lord put them under the soles of his feet. But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor misfortune. So I intend to build a house for the name of the Lord my God, as the Lord said to my father David, ‘Your son, whom I will set on your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.’ Therefore command that cedars from the Lebanon be cut for me. My servants will join your servants, and I will give you whatever wages you set for your servants; for you know that there is no one among us who knows how to cut timber like the Sidonians.”

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Reflect

There are many churches that will be opening for the first time today for in-person worship since the Covid-19 guidelines were announced. There has been much discussion about the importance of the church building. We have all heard that the Church is not a building. This is true, but another truth is that there are church buildings that have witnessed to the presence of Christ in their communities for decades and others for hundreds of years.

I have loved this passage of Scripture because it shows the common grace that comes from God.  The building of the Temple showed that even th0ugh we may have our differences in the community, we can work together for the good of all people.  King Hiram provided materials and skilled laborers to Solomon.  King Solomon provided food for King Hiram.  The Temple became a symbol of God blessing not only the Israelites but also the Tyrions.

My prayer for your church building is that as your church gathers together, either today or in the future that your church building both houses the Church and ministers to the community witnessing to the goodness and love of God for all people.

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Pray

Almighty God, we give you thanks that you have not left us without a place to gather in your name. Even when we are parted from one another you have kept us in fellowship.  Let us rejoice as we go to your house and dwell together in unity. Amen

Go with God!