II Samuel 2-4
Life is messy, even for the LORD’s anointed. One might think that with Samuel’s endorsement years earlier, and with his proven track record as a warrior, David’s path to the throne of Israel would be an easy one now that Saul is gone. But no. We see political intrigue, personal rivalries, vendettas, war, murder, and assassination. In all the maneuverings, David may be innocent, but not his family: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel are all David’s nephews, the sons of David’s sister, Zeruiah (I Ch. 2:16), and they complicate life for David.
Though David promptly executes those responsible for the assassination of Ish-bosheth (II Sam. 4:5-12), he does not execute Joab for the murder of Abner, instead only distancing himself from the murder and pronouncing a curse on Joab and all his father’s house. (II Sam. 3:28-29) It could well be argued that David drops the ball here, applying a different standard of justice to his family than to others. Our text makes no explicit comment one way or the other on that, but it seems to me that although we know David is a man of tremendous faith, he still feels “political realities”. He is therefore reluctant to dispense with a strong and able ally like Joab. David has the promise of the throne, but the path to it is long, painful, and difficult. Yes, life is messy for David.
We, of course, live in the same messy world. That is certainly true when we create our own messes. But even when we know we are on the right path, in step with the Lord, we meet assorted obstacles. We rarely (if ever) enjoy extended periods of “smooth sailing” (and with all the examples we have in Scripture, it is a mystery why we persist in expecting them). Things do not go smoothly. “Stuff” happens. We know that Jesus is already King, but we do not yet see the fullness of His Kingdom on this earth. Yes, life is messy for us.
On this Palm Sunday, let’s remember King Jesus. Let’s sing “Hosanna” to our great King, knowing that He is, truly, the LORD’s Anointed One, the Messiah, the Christ. But unlike those who originally waved palm branches, we know what the rest of the week holds. We know it is a mess. We know there is scourging and a crown of thorns. We know the Via Dolorosa, the Way of Suffering, that Jesus treads. We know He bears the Cross. We know that He is pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities. (Is. 53:5)
Life is messy, especially for the LORD’s Anointed.