Repairing the Temple

Carpenter ants damage wood in building construction. They prefer dead, damp wood in which to build nests. Unlike termites, they do not eat wood but leave behind sawdust-like material called frass. The most likely culprit in North American homes is the black carpenter ant. However, there are over 1,000 species of carpenter ants, including the famous “exploding ants” of Southeast Asia. Whether it is carpenter ants, carpenter bees, or wood boring beetles, insects can cause a lot of damage to building structures. Termites, of course, rank at the top of the list of wood-damaging insects. There are more 4,000 species. Most are actually valuable to the environment, but about 10 percent are pests that destroy buildings and cost about $2 billion annually. They live in colonies of several hundred to several million and use “swarm intelligence” to find and consume food. Perhaps their damage is so great because they eat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Neglecting the care of a building for 100 years is a long time. That’s about how long Israel neglected to care for God’s temple since it was dedicated by Solomon. The new King Joash noticed the temple was in disrepair and decided to do something about it. “And Jehoash (Joash) said to the priests, ‘All the money of the dedicated gifts that are brought into the house of the Lord. … Let the priests take it themselves … and let them repair the damages of the temple, wherever any dilapidation is found” (2 Kings 12:4, 5).

Whether damage happens by termites or tornadoes, we should honor the Lord’s house by keeping it in good repair. It demonstrates our loyalty and respect for our places of worship when we keep them cleaned and in good condition. Let us have the spirit of Joash and repair our churches if they have been damaged. Follow the example of the boy-king of whom it is written, “Jehoash did what was right in the sight of the Lord” (2 Kings 12:1).

Key Bible Texts

And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD’S offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments. (Exodus 35:21 KJV)