Day 142: Whole and Joyful Hearts

 Today's readings: 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 29, and Psalm 30.

I. 2 Samuel 24 recounts David’s sinful census, the resulting judgment, David’s repentance, and the purchase of the threshing floor that will become the site of the Temple.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

In the book of Numbers, we see how the Lord orders a census to help save his people, but David conducts a census to assert ownership over God's people. When he recognizes his sin, David is humbled, which shows that his heart is open to being converted. In repentance, he offers sacrifice to the Lord on behalf of the people. (p. 46)

I rather like this. David knew he had messed up. Rather than ignore this or be defensive, he was humble in repenting for his sin, even offering to sacrifice for the people. We can say much about his behavior in some things, but none of us is without sin, and David gives us a good example of how to turn back to God. 

II. 1 Chronicles 29 records David’s final preparations for the Temple, the people’s generous offerings, David’s prayer, and Solomon’s accession. David dies, and his son Solomon takes over as king.

The BIY Companion, Vol II, notes:

David gives freely and wholeheartedly of his wealth - all the things he has won in battle. Because of this, the people of Israel also give freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord. This brings joy to David because it brings joy to the Lord. We bring joy to the Lord when we give joyfully and without resentment. (p. 46)

III. Psalm 30 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

A thanksgiving psalm. The speaker is filled with gratitude after being healed from a near-fatal sickness. The memory of his struggle and recovery leads him to praise the Lord and to invite fellow worshippers to join him. In later Judaism, Ps 30 was sung at the Feast of Hanukkah, which commemorated the rededication of the Temple by Judas Maccabaeus in 164 B.C. (1 Mac 4:36-59). Christian tradition has often read Ps 30 in reference to the Resurrection of Christ. (p. 853)

That's all for today!