"did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?”
2 Samuel 7:7b (NRSV)
2 Samuel 7:7b (NRSV)
God calls out the people of Israel in this passage and questions, "when have I asked for a house of cedar?"
I have been pondering this passage and its relationship to Christmas Eve. It isn't very clear at all, but as I reflect on this Advent season during the Covid-19 pandemic, I've realized it is powerfully relevant.
I like to say all the time that the Bible is a living document. Not in that we amend it or add to it when it doesn't fit our liking, but more in that God speaks directly to us if we take time to listen.
God in this passage is saying, it is not up to you humans to decide if you should be a house. Rather, God will find the right time for a resting place. God was quite alright moving with the Israelites from place to place. God moved with the people because our God wants to be with us. So much so, that God chose to come into the world, into the flesh of a mere mortal, Jesus.
By the time you read this, we will have celebrated Christmas Eve from our homes, outside the walls of our building. While we may be grieving the fact that our building was empty last night, take comfort knowing that God is with us even when we are not together. God doesn't need a grand building - that's for us. God needs and wants to reside within us. When Christ is at the center of our lives, we can take comfort that we are always home for the holidays.
Through Jesus Christ the house of God, the Kingdom of God, is being made sure forever in us. God's throne has been established. Let's be sure to rest in that knowledge and share it with all we encounter!
.png)
