​Released. Scripture, reflection and prayer.

2 Kings 25:27-30
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In the thirty-seventh year of the exile of King Jehoiachin of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month, King Evil-merodach of Babylon, in the year that he began to reign, released King Jehoiachin of Judah from prison; he spoke kindly to him, and gave him a seat above the other seats of the kings who were with him in Babylon. So Jehoiachin put aside his prison clothes. Every day of his life he dined regularly in the king's presence. For his allowance, a regular allowance was given him by the king, a portion every day, as long as he lived.


Reflection. Names often have meaning in the Bible. In this translation, the Babylonian King is called Evil-merodach, which means something like a fool or someone who has bitterness about them. In Babylonian texts he is called Awil-marduk, which means 'man of marduk.' I find this interesting, but no more than that.

What interests me more is how Jehoiachin is treated by the new king. Jehoiachin is released after years of imprisonment, his given a place in the court of the king, he is re-clothed and has daily food allotted to him. Notice, though, that he is still kept in exile. It is a partial freedom.

Remember that in Christ Jesus we are set free. Completely free. Not partial.

Prayer. Lord Jesus, thank you that I am free because of you. Amen.