2 Kings 12:1-16
The death of Jehoiada marks a turning point in the long reign of Joash. The second book of Chronicles tells us about the sad end of his life. But here, up to v. 16, the happy period of his reign is unfolded. One thing alone seems to fill the king’s heart: the restoration of the house of the LORD. After the days of Solomon the temple had fallen into decay. But Joash, brought up with the priests in the chambers attached to the sanctuary, retained a profound interest in this house from his earliest days. At the same time he had the opportunity to observe every breach committed against it! And you, young man or young woman, brought up in the truths concerning the Assembly: has that a place in your hearts? No doubt you, too, unfortunately know about some of its "breaches": disagreements, laxity, lack of zeal, worldliness . . . To become like Joash, a "repairer of the breaches" (Isaiah 58:12), is that not a beautiful and desirable service? A young person may already learn to do this. What sort of cement do we need to use skilfully? Love, kindness, loyalty, gentleness and the inestimable "bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:2-3)!