Finally after all those numbers, and names, and begats and begottens, we get to the finale, the crescendo, of 1 Chronicles and we understand what it’s all about……

It’s all about handover from father to son. David is reflecting on his reign, and the rosters and the numbers of craftsmen and priests and warriors – and he finally gathers them all together, with all the jewels and the gold and the plans for the temple – and after collecting them and fighting for Jerusalem most of his adult life, he comes to the crunch: he is not allowed to build the temple because he has spilled too much blood.

But instead of sulking, he gathers everything together and begins a handover by instructing his son Solomon, “who is inexperienced”, in front of all Israel.

“Now therefore, in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of our God, be careful to seek out all the commandments of the Lord your God, that you may possess this good land, and leave it as an inheritance for your children after you forever.

“…Know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you.

“…Be strong and of good courage, and do it (build the temple); do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God – my God – will be with you.”

He then turns to all the people who have been listed, the craftsmen, and the priests, the warriors: “Now for the House of my God I have prepared with all my might…. who then is willing to consecrate himself this day to the Lord?”

And all the people of Israel do so.

“Then the people rejoiced, for they had offered willingly….”

Dear Father God, I am at a crossroads of my life, workwise. Please take my talents and help me use them to worship you and do what is right by you. Never let me forget the most important job you have given me: to be a good wife and patient teacher to my children. But please help me find the voice you have given me, and exercise the talents you have given me, to your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.