2 Chr 24: 1-16

The kingdom was now in the hands of Joash, under the guidance of Jehoiada - the chief priest. He was like a father to Joash and arranged for him as early as possible to have sons to continue the throne of David. During the first 15 or so years of his reign (40 in total), he followed the Lord as long as Jehoiada was alive. One of the main things that were accomplished under Joash, was the restoration of the temple which was neglected by his predecessors and the removal of the baals that filled the temple. He chose the Levites to collect taxes for the repair but they were neglient in their tasks According to the commentary:

There were three sources of income for the temple. There was the money that people gave for the work of the temple. Also, when people visited the temple they gave gifts for the temple. And there was the tax that Moses charged (2 Kings 12:4). This tax was half a shekel of silver for everyone who was over the age of 20 years (Exodus 30:11-16). The Levites did not collect this tax money. Jehoiada ought to have made the Levites go to collect the tax. Joash asked him why he had not done so.

 

Nevertheless the temple was repaired even better and stronger than before and the excess monies were used to replace/repair the items that were in the temple that were necessary for worship. While Jehoiada was alive, there were daily sacrifices in the temple and all was well. When he died, he was buried with the kings of David since he did so much to restore Judah to its glory for the Lord.

 

What a man he was! He was faithful beyond measure and even though he did have his faults, he was true to the Lord and His purposes.

 

Decent day yesterday, looking forward to heading home and working out of Princeton tomorrow. Heading up there on 9/21 which is good as well. Celebrating or recognizing my birthday on Friday with fam and friends - nothing better than that. Hopefully, the rain doesn't wash out the barbeque on Saturday for  my nephews' birthday party as well.

 

Praise for today: When I said, "my foot is slipping", your love, O Lord, supported me. Psalm 94: 18