By the time Hezekiah comes along, Israel has been destroyed by the Assyrians, yet the chapter says Hezekiah sent messengers from Beersheba to Dan. Dan is at the northern end of the now non-existent Israel. He is inviting the people who remain in Israel’s old territory to rejoin Judah in the worship of God. Some people from Israel accept the invitation. Israel has rejected the worship of God in the temple for generations and the nation has been destroyed as a result. Even in this dark hour for Israel, God extends an invitation for them to return.
This story reminds us of God’s deep desire to continue to be in a relationship with people even though they have rejected him. No matter how far a person has gone or how many consequences have been suffered, God still desires everyone to return. We can play a part in that invitation.