In 2 Chronicles 6 Solomon gathers all of the people of Israel to the temple. He blesses the Lord for the promise He made to his father David and to him. He recounts the promise that God would remain with the people if they keep the commandments. He asks God to hear the pleas of his people, bringing blessing and forgiveness to them. He asks for blessing in battle. He asks an interesting question: “But will God indeed reside with mortals on earth?” Of course Solomon is saying this because God cannot be contained, but we know that God indeed resided with us in the person of Jesus. I am certain that God smiled when Solomon asked the question.

In 2 Chronicles 7 God brings fire from heaven to consume the burnt offerings and sacrifices. The priests cannot enter the temple because the glory of the Lord filled the house. The people bow in worship of God. The festival lasts for seven days. The people go home remembering the goodness of the Lord.

God promises Solomon that if the people humble themselves He will forgive their sins and heal their land. God says that if Solomon and the people remain faithful God will be with them, but if they serve other gods, God will bring calamity on them.

Galatians 6 closes the letter. Paul encourages the people to restore anyone caught in a transgression. He tells them to bear each other’s burden, be concerned for their own work and do what is right. He ends with another warning against circumcision.

Paul continues the same themes throughout the letters. Be careful for yourself. Support others. Don’t be deceived. Continue in faith.  These are good words to live by.