2 Ki. 22: A Humble Man Rises

2 Kings 22:19 "Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD."

Josiah, another boy king, does right in the eyes of God. Isn't that the case? Except for Manasseh, at least, but Joash was also described as doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD in chapter 12. Children, really. Without their faith tainted by years of human "example."

After 18 years on the throne, Josiah decides its time for remodeling the temple...which probably was in disrepair from lack of use. While the men are fixing it up, they find the book of the law. Which was quite the discovery. How long was it hidden? How was there any sense of right? Was it merely orally passed on? Like a 1000-year game of telephone? It could be an excuse for the state of evil Israel and Judah perpetually found themselves in, had not there been some positive examples along the way.

Anyway, the book is read to Josiah, and of course its very bad news, considering Israel's recent history. He is distraught by this reading, and consults the prophetess Huldah. Its of course not good news for the people or the land, but because Josiah had the sense to humble himself before God, and set his heart right, Josiah himself would be spared from that calamity. God wanted that humility, and did not get it very often. When I think about it, these laws are about humility. About not chasing after self, but living according to what God prescribed. And great reward or evasion of tragedy are the result.