2013-07-08 - What Would Joash Say?

So they said to Joash, "Bring your son out. He has pulled down the altar of Baal and cut down the Asherah idol beside it. He must die!" (Judges 6:30 NCV)

Judges 6:25-32

Gideon felt God leading him to tear down my altar to Baal, the god of thunder. In its place, Gideon built an altar to God. My son and ten others did the work; it was not an easy task. It was done at night, for fear of the family's and the community's reaction.

In the morning, when people saw Baal's altar demolished, they investigated the act, and claimed Gideon as the culprit. The people demanded he die. Gideon found an ally in me, his dad. I did not hesitate being his defense. I wish he would have come to me first. I wasn't thrilled with his actions, but regardless, Gideon is my son.

I took a chance and talked to the people logically. I mustered all the courage I could, and told the people if Baal was a god, he would not need defending from mortals. Anyone who came to Baal's aid would be killed the next morning.

From then on, Gideon was known as Jerub-Baal, meaning "let Baal fight against him," (verse 32) on account of Gideon tearing down the idol's altar. I am glad my son's life and mine are spared. I know Gideon appreciates the sacrifice I made for him. It would have been nice, if he told me.

Lord, You come to our rescue and defense. You do not hesitate to care for one of Your children. Thank You that I am Your child. I pray that everyone will realize the Protector and Defender that You, Lord are. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

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