Daniel is considered one of Old Testament literature’s luminaries. His visions are legendary and have been the topic of discussions and study for centuries. What is most fascinating in addition to his literary skills and spiritual giftedness is his life.
Much of what is heard by congregants, parishioners, and listeners of pulpiteers is considered the major miraculous events. Skillful wordsmiths across the globe have their audiences swooning over the theatrical word plays of fiery furnace and lions’ den story telling. Some might even dabble in Daniel’s ability to interpret dreams or his ability to provide the prophetic.
There is a greater miracle, in my opinion, which is his life.
Daniel’s story begins with his country, land, and culture being taken and lost to bondage. In the face of bondage he creates a way to carve out convictions, habits, and a life that continues to honor his God. Yet, he is still in bondage. God does not take him out of bondage. God does not rescue him. But God does use him.
The Lord positions Daniel and his peers to be governors in a pagan world, under pagan leadership, in bondage. God blesses and anoints Daniel to live a life that spanned three kings with favor to influence the decisions and direction of each administration regardless of the challenges he faced. Daniel never wavered. God never forsook him. Daniel longed for home but understood that home was where his heart was and his heart was always with God.
The Bell Reader 