This week, I have been studying the above passage in Scripture on King Joash. The story is only one chapter, but it has really hit me with some tough lessons.

Joash was only seven-years-old when he became king, following the reign of a brutal and pagan ruler. At some point, Joash saw the dilapidated conditions of the Temple and the missing sacred vessels. He knew Moses had laid out a plan for upkeep of the Temple, so he reminded the Priest and Levites of this part of their job.

The Temple’s beauty was not only in the building itself, but also in the ornate gold, silver, and jeweled vessels used during worship services. Did the Priest and Levites need to be reminded to their duty? Did they see the deteriorating Temple or had they gotten so accustomed to it, that it all seemed normal?

Joash saw it and knew something wasn’t right, and that something had to be done. When his direction was not followed, he didn’t back down. He called the Chief Priest and demanded action.

We can get so accustomed to living with dysfunction, it can seem normal - even acceptable. God is always calling us to live richer and fuller lives. This means God has to confront the dysfunction within us. In my own life, God has used His Word, the wisdom of friends, and even difficult life lessons to deal with the dysfunction within me.

What about you? Is there something in your life that has seemed normal, maybe even acceptable, that God is revealing to you as dysfunction? Maybe it’s too embarrassing to admit, or maybe you just don’t know what to do. You are not alone. There is power in the gift of community.

Joash saw the Temple regain its rightful glory because he called upon the community to help.

—Pastor Jackie