1 Chronicles 11:10
These were the chiefs of David's mighty men--they, together with all Israel, gave his kingship strong support to extend it over the whole land, as the LORD had promised.
We’re just on the third week of this new year and it seems some have already lost the glitz and joy of the season. Highlighted by the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Corona, which started Monday, lawyers fear that this scrutiny, implying an undermining of the judiciary system, is endangering the country’s democracy. The back-fence talk that the president is shifting to dictatorship brings much distress especially because we feel we’ve just been there. Ironically though, such proceeding also surfaces the fact that the people’s power will make sure freedom and justice is kept. The Senate president promised that. They knew we will be watchful. We have our history to back us up.
From seventy years of exile to claiming back their homeland, we can imagine the hopes of the remnants. They probably can’t stop praising God for how He worked in the heart of King Cyrus to make them free. When they reached Zion, after settling in the towns, first on their list was what they long ago neglected: the Temple of God. Upon laying its foundations, it is said that there was mix of joyful shouts and loud weeping. The crying was from those old people who’ve seen its former glory. They knew it will take a lot of hard work to build their nation anew. With the Samaritans also occupying the land, oppositions were expected. God’s grace moved the chronicler to write chapter eleven at this time. It was the account of how the mighty David rose to power because of Israel’s support and his mighty men behind him, fighting alongside him. It features impossible exploits of individuals and God’s victory through them. Verse 9 wrote: ‘David became more and more powerful, because the Lord Almighty was with him’. The remnants needed to hear that part of history to strengthen their hopes and hold on to their faith. They needed to realize that the city of David became great not because of one bold man but because the people stood united and strong behind him, and foremost because God was with them.
How was your first three weeks so far? Are you already tired, discouraged and overwhelmed? Is the thought that there’s eleven more months to your rough routine and with that difficult person enough for you to shout out that life sucks? Well, it isn’t the first time, and you’re not the only one that road. Last year may have hit you hard and seeing January not promising either doesn’t mean it couldn’t go better. David is proof that God can raise one mere shepherd to the throne. Israel’s history is witness that battles can be won even against giants and empires. Our country survived despite leadership flaws and amidst crisis and floods. Romans 15:4 says: ‘For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.’ If we choose to put our trust in Him, He can fill us with joy and peace each day this year. We can have His strength to pursue impossible exploits and be one with our leaders in winning them. There is so much to look forward to this year. And God will make sure it will all end in praise. Happy 2012!
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