God of mercy,
you promised never to break your covenant with us.
Amid all the changing words of our generation,
speak your eternal Word that does not change.
Enable us to respond to your gracious promises
with faithful and obedient lives.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Key verse – 2 Kings 13:23 “But the Lord was gracious to them and had compassion and showed concern for them because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. To this day he has been unwilling to destroy them or banish them from his presence.” Take note that God continues to show grace over and over to the northern kingdom of Israel even though they do not repent. God is faithful to the faithless because that is who God is.
I am struck by Elisha’s response of grace both to Naaman’s offer to pay and to the army of Aram when the king of Israel wants to kill them. God has delivered in both places, so Elisha refuses both options for additional gain. Elisha’s response shows that God’s provision is enough, and more importantly that it will be enough when needed in the future.
One of my favorite scenes with Elisha:
16 “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
17 And Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes so he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Smile factor – I like the details in the story about Jehu. “The lookout reported, ‘…The driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi—he drives like a madman.” Oh that Jehu – you know what a crazy driver he is!
Things are going from bad to worse in Israel and Judah, but there are signs that Joash will be different. In 11:12 he is given a copy of the covenant (the Law) at his crowning. We haven’t seen a king with God’s Law for a while now. Then in verse 17 there is covenant renewal. These are good signs (but then come those high places again!).
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