“The people blessed all the men that willingly offered
themselves to dwell in Jerusalem.” (v.2)
Here in chapter 11, the arrangements are being made for the
settlement of Jerusalem and the surrounding cities. Because Jerusalem was the
center of danger, not many of the original 50,000 captives returned to dwell
there. It was, therefore, arranged that the princes should dwell in the city,
and that ten per-cent of the people, selected by lot, must take up their
residence there (v.1). In addition to those who were drafted, there were some
who voluntarily came forward to dwell in this place of danger (v.2).
Scripture tells us that, “Greater love has no one than this,
than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13). Here we see many Israelite’s
willing to put themselves in harms way for their family, their brethren, and in the defense of the holy city.
This beautiful gesture reminds us not only of the men and women in our armed
forces who have volunteered to stand in the gap for our freedoms, but also of
the ultimate sacrifice of our LORD, who willingly laid down His life for ours.
During this time of year, when our focus turns to the birth of
Jesus, the one born to die for the sin of the world, may we give Him the honor
due His name for His willingness to offer Himself up in our place, even to the
death of the cross. Hallelujah! Praise the LORD!
The Truth
“Therefore
by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is,
the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” (Hebrews 13:15)
