It took a year to read the Bible, then almost 9 months to read the Apocrypha. Now, I'm going to try to offer reflections on the Narrative Lectionary. But, I won't be posting daily--at least, for a while.

Thursday, February 12, 2015

The Prayer of Azariah (Addition to Daniel)

In the book of Daniel,  the transition from throwing them in the fiery furnace to their survival is abrupt and inexplicable. Here's the missing portion that can be inserted between Daniel 3: 23 and 3:24.

Azariah (Abednego) prays to God admitting that all the disaster that had overtaken Jerusalem was well deserved, a true judgment brought on them because of their sins, "We have not obeyed your commandments, we have not kept the or done what you have commanded us for our own good." Yet, Azariah asks God for mercy, "Remember the promises you have made to multiply Abraham's descendants. There aren't many of us left now." Interesting argument--which of God's promises will be kept?

These three men in the furnace are contrite. Flames will get your attention. Another problem--they can't get to the temple, so they must have an alternative procedure for approach to the Lord. They try praying where they are.

Although the flames leaped almost as tall as a football field, the fire did not touch them.

With one voice, the three men praised and glorified and blessed God, whose mercy endures forever.


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