Thursday, May 18, 2006

Old Testament Treasures

Reading through the Old Testament, there are things that I don't remember seeing before that are jumping off every page. For instance, why don't I remember the story found in 2 Kings 13: 20-21? Moabite raiders were entering Israel as some Israelites were burying a man. Seeing the raiders, they threw the man's body into Elisha's tomb. When the body touched Elisha's bones, the man came to life and stood up on his feet! Now you would think that I would have remembered that!

I also didn't remember that Israel had a queen for a while (kind of). When Ahaziah the king died, Athaliah, his mother, usurped the throne. She had the royal family exterminated. However, her grandson, Joash, was whisked away and hidden for 6 years. Joash later became the king at the age of 7.

It really is fascinating as I read about God's working through His people -- setting them on a course to the coming of Messiah. Today, I will begin reading through Hosea -- truly one of the most beautiful love stories ever told. A story of unconditional love. A story of a man who can't help loving his wife -- even as she does everything she can to kill his love. And to think that it is told to impress upon us how much God loves us!

3 comments:

Liz Moore said...

I love the stories of the old testament as well. Every time I read the old testament, I learn something or am fascinated by something I didn't know before. I think we get so caught up in the new testament in our studies and in preaching, we sometimes forget the old testament is full of wonderful treasures. Thanks for the reminder!

Amy C said...

I love all of your keen observations. Thanks for sharing so faithfully your insight!

Bev Ross said...

The O.T. holds so many wonderful and profound treasures! I had forgotten some of these stories. Thanks for the share!