But this was not Solomon's vision. This was David's vision. Although David did not get a chance to complete it. Much like Joshua fulfilling Moses leading God's people into the promised land, Solomon completes David's vision of the temple. From wandering in the desert and carrying God around for what seems like forever, God now has a home.
And That can be a dangerous thing. Instead of worshipping God, there is a temptation to worship the temple. In fact, the very splendor of the temple can become an idol and distraction to the worship of the God who lives. There is a great celebration happening in this story as well....we now have a home. 480 years after leaving Egypt the people have finally settled into the land and God now has a place to be worshipped. God instructs them on the purpose of this temple....“About this Temple you are building—what’s important is that you live the way I’ve set out for you and do what I tell you, following my instructions carefully and obediently. Then I’ll complete in you the promise I made to David your father. I’ll personally take up my residence among the Israelites—I won’t desert my people Israel.”
It is the people that God promises never to abandon...not the building. When the disciples see THIS temple they look at it in amazement and wonder " one of his disciples said, “Teacher, look at that stonework! Those buildings!” Jesus said, “You’re impressed by this grandiose architecture? There’s not a stone in the whole works that is not going to end up in a heap of rubble.” (Mark 13:1-2).
Jesus reaffirms God's promise to the people....not the temple.
Lord, forgive us when our buildings and other things distract us from worshiping you. And help us to remember your promise to never abandon us and live among us always!- Amen!