Today's thoughts

I've been systematically working through the bible for awhile, and today I read the last couple chapters of 2 Chronicles. As many of you know, I love the Old Testament, and this particular excerpt is very powerful, as it is the final true passover celebrated by Judah prior to the time of the exile. The writer of the Chronicles tends to focus more on the kings that followed in the ways of the LORD, mostly in an attempt to emphasize the need to draw Israel and Judah back to God, and even its account here of the decline into exile continues that theme. The exile was a time of great turmoil for the people of God, and it was brought upon them because of their decision not to follow God with all their heart. Yet, as the Chronicles show, God is faithful to forgive those who humble themselves to Him, and that is a theme that carries forward into today! I know I make mistakes constantly, and it is only with the knowledge that I can ask for forgiveness and receive the strength to change my behavior that I am able to carry on!