The notes in the ‘Explore’ sections of this series in 1 Kings are written as the diary of a fictional courtier in King Solomon’s court (but look carefully at the Bible passages to check out his accounts!). As he observes, questions and comments on what he sees happening in Solomon’s life, he tries to discern God’s hand at work – and challenges us to do the same in our families, churches, communities and societies.

‘What an extraordinary festival it has been this year! Twice as long as usual to include the dedication of the Temple, along with our usual remembrance and thanksgiving (see Leviticus 23:33). Every sense was heightened – we heard many different accents and dialects around us, as vast numbers of people had travelled to Jerusalem from the far north to the far south of the country, and all places in between; we saw the pall of smoke over the city, and smelled the burning fat from the thousands of sacrifices taking place. And there was food everywhere, as people cooked and ate in their shelters, and shared with neighbours. What a joyous time it has been!

‘On one occasion, Solomon stood up before the gathering of the people and blessed them. As he prayed, I was reminded of God’s blessing of our patriarch, Abraham – God blessed him so that all peoples of the earth would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:2,3). Solomon prayed that God would bless Israel so that all other nations would know that he is the one and only God. It made me think – does blessing always carry purpose and responsibility with it? I feel very blessed with my position in court. I wonder how I should be sharing that blessing? 

Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father; / There is no shadow of turning with thee.’¹

Solomon turns from addressing the Lord to addressing the people, assembled as he prayed. He reminds the people of God’s faithfulness in keeping his covenant promises and that now Israel experiences a time of peace and rest because the people have walked in obedience to God’s commands and played their part in fulfilling the covenant. This is the highpoint of this story and Solomon at his best – characterised by all being well for him and the people in the land. 

Solomon continues to pray for the Lord’s fame to be known, re-emphasising that the Temple has an evangelistic role, standing as a monument to God’s mercy and faithfulness, leading others to know the distinctive nature of the Lord: he is God above all gods, Lord of all the earth. Perhaps in our praying, we could focus less on our needs and more on how the Lord might be glorified and honoured by those who do not yet know him. Along with a plea for God’s faithfulness to be celebrated among the nations, Solomon also prays for covenant loyalty from the people. We each need to keep seeking God’s help, day by day, to walk faithfully and loyally before him. 

The culmination of the dedication ceremony is a multitude of sacrifices. One can only imagine the sight and smell of the many offerings that are made. It seems here that these sacrifices are huge in number to provide for a great feast. This is a moment when God’s promises have been fulfilled, the people have obeyed him and all is rejoicing. It is right to pause to savour such moments, to delight in them and to rejoice at what God has accomplished in partnership with his people. 

Praise God as you reflect on the promises he has fulfilled in your life.

¹ Thomas Chisholm, 1866–1960