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What is the Blood Curse of Jeconiah? Part 2
Through the prophets Samuel and Isaiah, God promised Israel that the throne of David would be established forever. Nevertheless, Israel didn’t have a smooth ride. Because of Solomon’s disobedience, the Kingdom split in his son Rehoboam’s reign. God gave Jeroboam the Northern Kingdom, leaving Rehoboam with the remnant – Judah. The Northern Kingdom lasted for just over 200 years, from 930 to 722 BC, and in that tumultuous time went through 10 dynasties. For a visual, see this chart. Zimri’s dynasty lasted only 7 days! The backstabbing and intrigue could inspire many a telenovela. In contrast, David’s line survived, father to son, through every threat. Even when Queen Athaliah tried…
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Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? Part 1
This is the question the magi from the East asked King Herod, the crowned King of the Jews. That magi, AKA wise men, asked King Herod that question is almost laughable. Essentially, they were asking this Roman figurehead, “Where’s the real king?” Then again, they didn’t have the internet. Perhaps they didn’t realize how dangerous it was to ask this question to a man who executed three of his own sons to hang on to power. Although Herod had the title of the King of the Jews, he wasn’t even of Jewish descent. He was an Idumean, an Edomite, an enemy of Israel. The Roman decision to make him king…
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Something new for 2024
When I became a believer during my senior year in high school, I loved studying the names of God. I had a big poster filled with God’s names and attributes: I Am, El Shaddai, Elohim, etc… It was a black background with His names in different colors filling the poster. Anyone remember it? The poster was a staple in Christian bookstores in the ’80s. It traveled with me to college and back and to my first apartment. I would meditate on this visual reminder in times of stress, and it brought so much comfort. By the time I finally retired it, the edges were tattered, and it had countless creases…
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The Tower of the Flock, Part 8
The flight to Egypt “Mary, love, wake up.” Joseph’s urgent whisper roused me from deep slumber. The kiss he brushed on my temple was both gentle and urgent. Opening my eyes, I was startled by the darkness. The star that stood over our home for two nights had gone dim. But Joseph’s apologetic smile reflected the moonlight streaming onto the roof. “You looked so peaceful. I’m sorry to wake you, but we must flee. I had a dream.” He stood and went to wake Jesus. “An angel told me to get up. He was adamant. Herod is going to search for our Child to kill Him.” Herod is going to…
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The Tower of the Flock, Part 7
Feroze’s story Shaking my head in disbelief, I stared at this ragtag cluster of lean-tos, huts, and shanties that comprised this little town of Bethlehem. Was it truly home to the King of the Jews? But as we hesitated, the light of the star grew in intensity, and it pulsed as if impatient for us to get moving. One look at my companions told me we were of one mind. We didn’t understand, but we were in the right place. No doubt about it. Ihsan had fallen to his knees in worship. “Ihsan,” I said. “Let’s go. You can worship at the feet of the King of Kings.” My son…
