Another King

CONSIDER THIS

Forty seven chapters — spanning from Solomon to Jehoiachin — details what it looks like when humanity tries to rule without God. It chronicles widespread corruption and rebellion, unheeded warnings of the prophets, and reaping the consequences of sin. O sure, there are moments punctuated by bright spots like the miracles of Elijah and Elisha, and God-loving kings like Hezekiah and Josiah. Otherwise, pretty much doom and gloom. Welcome to the books of 1 & 2 Kings.

The last chapter ends on a real downer — Jerusalem is destroyed, the people are in exile. But then, right at the very end, something odd happens. King Jehoiachin of Judah, who has been sitting in a Babylonian prison for 37 years, gets a break. The new king of Babylon, Evil-merodach (I know, great name), decides to be nice. He takes Jehoiachin out of prison, gives him new clothes, and says, “Hey, come eat at my table for the rest of your life.” Did you see it? Here is a glimmer of hope in the midst of this great darkness, pointing forward to Another King.

It seems like a random historical footnote, but it’s actually a beautiful picture of Jesus and His never-ending grace.

Jehoiachin goes from prison to palace — trading his prison rags for royal robes, sitting in a seat of honor, and receiving amazing provision for the rest of his life. Just like him, we are invited to trade our heavy worn-out shame for our King’s righteousness, to pull up a chair at His royal table, and feast on His endless grace as part of His family.

Jesus is our Promised King — the King who changes hearts and redeems His people.