May the LORD now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this. II Samuel 2:6
Saul, Israel’s first king, anointed by God, has been killed in battle along with his son Jonathan. (The details of Saul’s death are better explained in I Sam. 31.) Jonathan and David shared a deep and committed friendship that reached beyond politics and traditions. When David heard of their deaths he was deeply grieved.
David was to be Israel’s next king, chosen by God’s authority rather than man’s heritage. God told David to take his household and go to Hebron where he will be anointed and begin his reign. The words above are spoken in a message sent to the men that showed proper respect to Saul and Jonathan, giving them a proper burial and dignity in death.
David was often the victim of Saul’s ruthless treatment, but before he takes the throne he chooses to lead Israel in traditional mourning, thus putting love, mercy and compassion above entitlement.
David, a man after God’s heart. Love, mercy, compassion………the things God gives, the things He expects us to share with others.
Happy Monday!
Gretchen