The Red Worm And The Shining Light

Jair served as Israel’s judge after Tola died (v. 2). Both judges inherited a nation that became corrupt and idolatrous (Jgs 8:33), under the wicked and oppressive rule of Abimelech (Jgs 9:56). The name Tola means crimson worm. The Tola’ath worm was used in ancient times to produce a red dye. His name reminds us of our Lord Jesus Who called Himself “a worm” (Ps 22:6), and His blood was shed (Heb 9:22), “for the remission of sins” (Mt 26:28). Jair’s name means brightly shining, which reminds us of God as “the Sun of righteousness” (Mal 4:2), and Jesus as “the light of the world” (Jn 8:12)!

God raised up Tola and Jair to bring peace to a nation that was in turmoil. He also raised up Jesus “from the dead” (Rom 4:24), so that anyone who would trust Him by faith as Lord and Saviour (Gal 3:26), will be justified and shall “have peace with God” (Rom 5:1). As God’s children, we are also His “ambassadors” (2 Cor 5:20), to bring peace (Mt 5:9), and to “preach the gospel of peace” (Rom 10:15), to the world! Although little is known in the lives of Tola and Jair, they made a big difference for a multitude of people who were living in Israel during that time.

There are many bible-believing Christians today who think that they cannot be used by God because they are insignificant (Prov 3:27). Just remember that God has bigger plans for your life (Jer 29:11), and He wants to use you in ways that you can ever imagine (Rom 8:28)! Tola and Jair did not do anything extraordinary, but they impacted so many people that it had long-lasting effects until today. We may not have accomplished anything remarkable according to the worldly standards. But if we walk daily with Jesus (1 Pet 2:21), serve faithfully in His local church (Heb 6:10), raise our family to honor Him (Deut 6:7), and proclaim the gospel to lost sinners (Prov 11:30), then our lives are extraordinary! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera