Solomon is a biblical character to be admired.
There he is following in his father’s footsteps. There he is sorting out those that pose a threat to his reign. There he is conversing with God in a dream asking Him for the one thing he needs to rule well – wisdom. There he is wisely adjudicating a contentious baby issue between two mothers. There he is building a glorious temple to the Lord and a lush palace for his Egyptian wife. There he is impressing the Queen of Sheba with how he runs his kingdom, his palace and the rest of his business as well as answering any question that comes his way. He’s at peace all around and ruling a thriving and happy kingdom. No wonder he had the title of the wisest man who ever lived.
For all that and the acclaim, he is not as good as it gets.
Other significant characters can spring to mind – Noah, Abraham and Sarah, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Rahab, Ruth, David, Elijah and Elisha. Lots of notable characters who have shown terrific acts of faith. Yet the book of Hebrews gives the clear indication that this is not as good as it gets.
Further in history from Alexander the Great to Bill Gates, huge feats have been made by huge characters. Yet here too this is not as good as it gets.
We’re invited to Bethlehem, Capernaum and Jerusalem to view the character of the son of a virgin, who declared and demonstrated a heavenly kingdom come to earth. We’re invited to see him selecting His followers from diverse backgrounds. We’re invited to see him engage and enrage the status quo through acts and teachings that had a greater authority to any experienced previously or since. We’re invited to a place of crucifixion and an empty tomb.
We’re invited to go beyond and reach the source of life because He is life.
For in Jesus Christ there is none to match Him. He is incomparable. He is as good as it gets and life without Him results in no life at all.
Great people of old would love to meet Him, but we have an invite to believe Him and receive Him knowing in Him we receive that which is as good as it gets.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 