Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, (I Chronicles 12:32 ESV)
The News and Love
You probably do not know much about Arthur St. Clair. But I do. I know about him because for some reason, I like him. Most famously, St. Clair was the seventh President of the United States under the Articles of Confederation. He was a farmer, a Justice of the Peace, and a governor of Ohio Territory. He also served unsuccessfully as a General in the War for American Independence, and led American troops in 1792, overseeing the worst defeat of American Forces in our history.
I am not really sure why I like him.
But since I do… I know about him. We are willing and eager to learn about those we like, appreciate, and especially love.
When David was crowned king of all Israel, the book of Chronicles listed attributes of the people who gathered to his banner. The men of Issachar understood the times, we read.
It seems to me that this statement indicates their love of God. They understood the times, because they loved God and wanted to understand what He does in the world.
And so we can gather the News, even when it is unpleasant. Because in the News we can see the hand of God.
At times it is difficult, confusing, or frustrating. But God’s ways are not our ways. (Isaiah 55:8) And our love for God can be found in our study, comprehension, and understanding of the times.
Take the love God grants us.