Turning Back Time

As King of Judah, Hezekiah instituted many reforms that strengthened the religious traditions of Israel while working to rebel against the country's Assyrian captors. Late in his rule he became gravely ill and prayed fervently for healing. As he confronts the big questions of life, God's answers and his response are chronicled in both Isaiah 38 and 2 Kings 20.

(Summary of Isaiah 38) Isaiah prophesies that Hezekiah will die -- which prompts his prayer for a longer life. Hezekiah makes a case for all of the good things he has done as king. In reponse, the Lord reveals to Isaiah that Hezekiah will live an additional 15 years and that the Assyrians will not take Jerusalem in that time. God confirms this promise with a miraculous sign of "turning back time" (approx. 20 minutes) on a sundial. After his healing, Hezekiah writes a song to express his thanks to God. He shows great humility and affirms that God is his strength. He proclaims that while he is still alive, he will be devoted to claiming the Lord's faithfulness.

Read and study both accounts of Hezekiah in Isaiah and 2 Kings. The miracle that God performs seems to jump out as the key to the lesson, but I think it is important to focus on Hezekiah's response to his healing. How can his response be a lesson for us today? What should we be doing in our families to show our affirmation to God? Check back soon.