“But Ahaziah’s sister…took his infant son, Joash, and stole him away from among the rest of the king’s children, who were about to be killed. She put Joash and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah, so the child was not murdered. Joash remained hidden in the Temple of the LORD for six ears while Athaliah ruled over the land.”
2 Kings 11:2-3 NLT
Hidden—concealed, covered—this precious baby boy was sheltered in the Temple for six years! My mind can hardly comprehend the impact of growing up in such an environment.
Imagine what it might be like to be surrounded by the LORD’s holy presence twenty-four/seven, to hear songs of worship from the priests day and night, to smell the burning incense every day. Imagine watching people bring their sacrifices and observing their dedication to the LORD. And what about the weekly Sabbath, the monthly feasts, and the yearly Passover when thousands would gather to celebrate with eating and dancing before the LORD?
Besides all those blessings, I’m sure Joash eavesdropped on many priestly discussions, and perhaps he even joined in their songs as he lay in his bed every night. It was those priests who taught Joash to reverence the Lord, but Joash had to choose to worship the Lord, HIS God.
At age seven, when Joash was crowned king, that choice was evident. In fact, King Joash had one passion during his entire reign—to repair the Temple of the Lord HIS God.
I have never been hidden in a Temple like Joash, but when I chose to worship Jesus as my Lord, I became His temple! Surrounded by His Holy Presence twenty-four/seven, I wonder…
Are there any repairs I need to make to this temple today?!”
