I Samuel 23-24
Dear RTB’ers,
David on the run and Saul in hot pursuit. It’s a continuing story of Saul’s pursuit and David’s escape – or of Saul’s withdrawing. There are a number of smaller items in today’s reading, but David sparing Saul’s life really sticks out for me. They are both in the same cave, with Saul unaware of David’s presence. David’s men suggest that David can now end Saul’s pursuit by taking Saul’s life. David, however, has a different response: He said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the LORD’s anointed, to put out my hand against him, seeing he is the LORD’s anointed.” (v. 24:6) In liturgical churches today we consecrate our clergy with anointing oil when we ordain them. I have always been careful not to speak out directly against these clergy who have thus been anointed. I may disagree with decisions that are made, but I’m careful to hold back my tongue in speaking directly against them. Sadly, however, I’ve heard many harsh words spoken against some of those who have been chosen to lead us.
So, Saul repents: You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. And you have declared this day how you have dealt well with me, in that you did not kill me when the LORD put me into your hands. (v. 24:17b-18) But as I wrote above, David on the run and Saul’s pursuit is a continuing story. Again, stay tuned!
Blessings!