IN THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BIBLE LESSON December 1, 2008 Issue

SAFE IN GOD'S REIGN

MICHAEL HAMILTON

THE STORIES OF TWO KINGS are the centers of gravity for me in this lesson on "God the Only Cause and Creator."

We meet Hezekiah and Nebuchadnezzar in the midst of crises of authority. At first their responses to danger diverge, but decisive moments of commitment to the divine purpose lead to deep spiritual insights for both rulers.

King Hezekiah of Judah, who reigned from the late eighth to early seventh centuries bc , fell ill as the Assyrians were increasing their pressure on his regime, making his condition a matter of grave national concern (Isaiah 38, Section II, citation 9). Hezekiah turns "his face toward the wall," and prays: "Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight" (verse 3).