A Month of Remembering

November 5th wasn’t always about fireworks and fun, writes Bert Cargill of St Monans Gospel Hall. It began as a way of remembering the treason of Guy Faulkes and his friends who tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Now it has created a hazard for people and pets in some places!

November 11th is different. It’s an opportunity to remember the many courageous men and women who gave their lives in the cause of freedom in wars that have blighted this earth for centuries, and sadly, they still do. So, in a more sombre mood, communities and individuals will pause this weekend, reflect, and observe a minute of silence. “We will remember them.”

Through the Bible in 66 Days - 2 Kings

First and Second Kings are often regarded as one book. It covers the period from King Ahab to the time when Israel and Judah were taken into captivity—the period known as the exile. The reason this happened was that they disobeyed God, worshipped idols and turned to grotesque religious practices that were not only evil but very harmful to women and children.

The basic lesson we learn from this is that sin will always catch up with you. You can't outrun it, and there are long-term consequences to our behaviour. This is something we all need to be aware of, as we often forget that we will all stand before God, our maker and that He, as the judge of all the earth, will deal with us fairly but righteously. Hebrews 9:27,28 state this - 'And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him' KJV.

Through the Bible in 66 Days - 1 Kings

The book of 1st Kings, a detailed account of the history of the kings of Israel and Judah, is not just a collection of facts. It spans the period from the reign of the second King, David, to the times of Ahab and Jehoshaphat, covering a significant period of approximately 118 to 125 years. This historical context is not just crucial, it's a bridge that connects us to the biblical narrative, giving us a deeper understanding and a sense of belonging.

After the monarchy was established, the United Kingdom endured for 120 years before it began to break apart. This period is significant as it marks the peak of Israel's political unity under the rule of Saul, David, and Solomon. Saul, the first king, reigned for 40 years, followed by David, and then Solomon. These three kings, each reigning for 40 years, played crucial roles in shaping the nation's history. However, it is disheartening to note that two of them failed miserably, ultimately leading to the kingdom's eventual division.

The message of the book is a testament to the enduring character of Jehovah, the sovereign ruler of Israel. It underscores that He blesses obedience, punishes disobedience, and forgives those who repent. This timeless lesson is for us all to learn, as it reveals the unchanging character of God. It's a reminder that we can know God personally through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Through the Bible in 66 Days - 2 Samuel

Everybody loves a hero. King David was brave and handsome a brilliant musician, poet, leader and warrior. He was everything a good king should be. He loved God, ruled fairly, obeyed God’s commands and brought wealth, peace and joy to the people. But his story reminds me that the higher we rise the further we can fall. 

In the story of second Samuel we are confronted with the sins of David and the subsequent consequences for him and his family. He slept with another man’s wife, got her pregnant and then planned the man’s death so nobody would find out. He ended up

marrying her. His family was torn apart by these terrible choices. When He eventually repented of his sin, God forgave him but his rule as a king was never the same again. In fact, as you trace his family records we discover that the family suffered many things as a result of David’s sin.

So, what can we learn from a king whose life was a mixture of success and fear, good and bad, love and hate, inner peace and turmoil?