Sad

You were sorry and humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I said against this city and its people—that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the LORD. So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city.’” [2 Kings 22.19-29a]

There is something very sad about this passage of scripture.

It's all well and good that King Josiah would not live to see the devastation and desolation of Jerusalem in his lifetime, but is that really enough?

My answer to the question above is no.

Moses was so God-minded toward Israel that he told God it was not enough to spare only himself. Moses is our example of an intercessor, Josiah is not.

What does this mean today?

I think a passage in Ezekiel says it best:

“I [God] looked for someone who might rebuild the wall of righteousness that guards the land. I searched for someone to stand in the gap in the wall so I wouldn’t have to destroy the land, but I found no one. [Ezekiel 22:30]

There is no doubt what true Christians in the USA need to be doing right now...

Father, help us to repent not only for ourselves, but for our nation!