Jehoiada - An Introduction: Part 2
Hi there. Almost 3 months ago, I began this blog (compliments of my mentor - CSM (ret.) James D. Pendry) by endeavoring to introduce a not-widely-known Biblical figure named Jehoiada. Jehoiada was an Old Testament priest who so impressed me some years ago when I first learned of him that I began to study whatever history or commentaries I could find on his life. Because of the things I learned about this man’s character has impressed me so, I have chosen to honor him by titling this site after him. Unexcusably, I now resume my initial submission from October 15th as 2007 comes to a close and ask your forgiveness for my lengthy, literary inactivity.
Jehoiada exemplified a quality of leadership that I find amazing and intriguing. There are numerous books, explanations, gurus and “talking heads” available today that offer their definitions, teachings and views on what leadership is and/or should be. In my finite mind, the essence of leadership is displayed when people sincerely want to follow the one who they view as their leader.
Interspersed throughout chapters 11 and 12 of the 2nd book of Kings, and 23 and 24 of the 2nd book of Chronicles, there is clear evidence that there were people living in the kingdom of Judah in Jerusalem who wanted to follow the Jehoiada because of the leadership he demonstrated during his life. Jehoiada bravely opposed a would-be throne usurper; defiantly stood against all practices that dishonored the God of the Hebrews; initiated and implemented reforms that helped a wayward nation return to the laws of God via the teachings of Moses; directed his fellow priests to perform their duties properly and purposefully in accordance with the instructions God gave to King David; and for good measure, created what I believe to be the first ever “safe deposit box” to be used for offertories in the church (2 Kings 12:9).
The Bible even states the King Joash, a king who served Judah during the life of Jehoiada, did what was pleasing in the sight of God his entire life because Jehoiada instructed him to do so. Jehoiada did so much good in his service to the kingdom, when he died at age 130, he was buried in the burial place reserved for kings only - a high honor for one whose lifetime of service was as a temple official.
So, there you have it. My reason for dedicating this blog-site to the Old Testament priest called Jehoiada. I intend to continue writing here regualrly, sharing my thoughts on a myriad of subjects and thought processes in an effort to bless others in a way that is remotely reminiscent of this Biblical hero, as I am able to do. If I become negligent in submitting entries as I did in the past 3 months, somebody please contact me and say, “Hey, Jehoiada wanna-be, what’s up?”
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