May 22

May 22

Saul & Jonathan Die -- David mourns & God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: 1 Chronicles 10

Reading 2: 2 Samuel 1

Reading 3: Ezekiel 33:11

Today we reach the sad end of the account of Saul.  The once renowned king, who turned his back on God, finally meets his end in battle, not fighting but committing suicide rather than fall into the hands of his enemies. What a tragedy that the one who stood head and shoulders above everyone, and had all the anointing of God in his life, chose to go his own way until he ends his life a defeated, fallen man.

Such was the sorrow of David and his men for the death of Saul and his sons (including his beloved friend Jonathan) that he writes a song of mourning and remembrance to be taught to his whole tribe. He also kills an enemy informant who is clearly lying to boost his own standing. The Amalekite thinks he is boosting his influence with David by saying that he killed Saul since Saul and David were foes, but David's love for God forbids him to count the Lord's anointed his enemy. Instead, he brings justice to the young messenger for his own confession that he killed Saul (even though David does not know at this point that the man is making up that part of the story).

David's mourning over Saul and Jonathan reflects God's heart revealed in Ezekiel: "I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?"

Let's embrace that attitude ourselves as we face those in our own society who sin against God, even conspicuously. And let's remember that we ALL sin and deserve death; repentance is the only path to life.

Have a great day!

Mark.