KING JOTHAM

2nd Chronicles 27:1-9
ITS NONE OF MY BUSINESS

And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, according to all that his father Uzziah had done (although he did not enter the temple of the Lord). But still the people acted corruptly.

There are only nine verses recorded for King Jotham. He was 25 years old when he became King. His fathers humiliation affected him profoundly but Jotham was able to move on in life. He focused his energies on building programmes, “...he built extensively on the wall of Ophel” and fought a few wars most notably with the Ammonites.

But one thing stands out- he stayed away from the temple.His fathers  humiliation was enough.His influence over the people was minimal to say the least.True, the people acted corruptly- but he decided it was none of his business.

The past has a way of conditioning us to  behave  in a certain way in our present circumstances.If  people are closed up and restricted, if they get edgy on hearing a thing,you can be sure something is simmering underneath. And oftentimes its related to a painful experience.Beware of assuming that church people are different from the rest of the world.Its far safer to face the reality,than to be deceived by peaceful exteriors.

Live your life as your own. Don't let the world foster its own ideas as to how you should live.But in your isolation,be sensible.Isolation has its own pricey tags.It can drive anyone to alcohol,depression,anger,thoughts of suicide and for Jotham it was work- "building extensively".Its impossible to be unaffected by the past. But its all history now.The solution? Say it out loud. "I will not let anyone, friends, foe or family ruin  my life" One's rationality is the last line of defence before  breaking free.
" And when I passed you by and saw you polluted in your own blood,I said to you -"live, yes I said to you- live"   Chapter 16 Ezekiel