As the lectionary leads us rapidly through the First Book of Samuel and more slowly through the Gospel of Saint Mark, it is good to notice the similarities between David and Jesus. David, the protagonist of the two Books of Samuel, is a type of Jesus, as are Adam, Abel, Melchizedek, Abraham and so forth. If you would know Jesus you want to know these types, for he gathered into himself and incarnated the Spirit that drove all of them.
In both of today’s readings, people are filled with delight and spontaneously gather around their heroes, David and Jesus. Both men have magnetic charm, both have enormous authority. David conquers enemies, Jesus drives out demons. David has been anointed by Samuel; and Jesus, by the Holy Spirit in the Jordan River. Both are called shepherds, the traditional title for the kings of Israel and Judah. David leads men into battle; Jesus leads his disciples on a spiritual siege of Jerusalem, the city which David had captured a thousand years earlier. And both founded everlasting kingdoms.
In today’s stories also, David and Jesus inspire jealousy and hostility. Saul was delighted when David killed Goliath, but he was not so happy when the pretty young women came dancing out of the villages singing, “Saul has slain his thousands and David his ten thousands.” Saul’s jealousy will develop into a crippling, obsessive madness. In the Gospels, the frenzy of Pharisees, Sadducees and Herodians will drive them to renounce God as their king when, responding to Pilate’s question they shout, “We have no king but Caesar.”
Comparing Jesus to David, a study which is called “typology,” helps us to "see thee more clearly, love thee more dearly, follow thee more nearly day by day."
We also want to see the hand of God in our lives. It will shape our prayers and answer them. It will guide our thoughts, words and deeds with the same Spirit that animated King David and the Lord Jesus. For each one of us is a "type" of Jesus and every Christian's life is a gospel story.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.