Tag Archives: King David

Devotional

Love Amidst Rebellion

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Read 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Fathers can give their sons an inheritance of houses and wealth, but only the Lord can give an understanding wife” (Proverbs 19:14 NLT).

Image created by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Copilot, an AI language model developed by Microsoft and powered by OpenAI.

In the biblical narrative of 2 Samuel 18, we are drawn into a story of profound love and heart-wrenching tragedy amidst the backdrop of political turmoil. King David, despite the rebellion of his son Absalom, exhibits an extraordinary depth of paternal love and loyalty that resonates through the ages. As Absalom’s forces prepare for battle against David’s own, the king issues a poignant plea to his commanders: “For my sake, deal gently with young Absalom” (2 Samuel 18:5, NLT). This request, born out of a father’s unwavering affection, stands as a testament to the enduring bond between parent and child, even in the face of betrayal and conflict.

As the harrowing conflict unfolds, Absalom meets his fate on the battlefield, prompting an outpouring of grief from David that pierces the soul. “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you” (2 Samuel 18:33, NLT), David cries, his anguish echoing through the annals of history as a raw expression of a father’s deepest love and lamentation.

The parallels with Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, “King Lear,” are striking. In this tale of familial discord and betrayal, we witness the downfall of a king deceived by those closest to him. King Lear, in his twilight years, seeks to divide his kingdom among his daughters, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia, based on their professions of love. Yet, it is Cordelia, the youngest and most sincere, who faces rejection for her honest avowal, while Goneril and Regan, with their false flattery, receive Lear’s favor.

The consequences of Lear’s misplaced trust unfold tragically as his kingdom descends into chaos and Cordelia meets her untimely demise. Lear’s anguished cry upon discovering her fate resonates with the raw emotion of David’s lament for Absalom, underscoring the universal themes of love, loyalty, and the agony of familial betrayal.

In both narratives, we are confronted with the complexities of human relationships—the ties that bind us together and the fractures that threaten to tear us apart. David’s unyielding love for Absalom and Lear’s eventual recognition of Cordelia’s loyalty serve as powerful reminders of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

As we contemplate these stories, we are compelled to ponder the nature of love and loyalty. What compels a father to forgive his son’s transgressions? What drives a king to trust those who would betray him? And yet, amidst the turmoil and heartache, we find glimpses of grace—moments of redemption that speak to the enduring power of love to transcend even the deepest wounds.

Let us strive to emulate the compassion and empathy demonstrated by David and Lear, recognizing that every member of our family is deserving of love and understanding, despite their faults or mistakes. As we cultivate an atmosphere of love and acceptance within our families, we create a foundation of support and unity that can weather any storm. Through our actions, may we honor the sacred bonds of family and reflect the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father, who embraces us all with open arms.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Family bonds, despite their trials, reflect the enduring and unconditional love of God.

PRAYER
Lord, grant us the strength to love as You love, to forgive as You forgive, and to hold fast to the bonds of family that unite us. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

A Temple Tale

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Read 2 Samuel 7:1-14a

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God” (Psalm 51:17 NLT).

Image created by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Copilot, an AI language model developed by Microsoft and powered by OpenAI.

In the vibrant city of ancient Jerusalem, amid the splendor of his royal palace, King David’s heart swelled with pride. His reign was secure, his kingdom flourishing, and the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God’s presence, rested in a tent. David pondered, “Why should I dwell in a palace while the Ark of God remains under a tent?” (2 Samuel 7:2, NLT). It seemed a noble aspiration: to honor God with a grand temple, a tangible symbol of reverence and devotion.

David’s aspirations whispered sweetly, fueling his ambition to build God a house. Yet, beneath the veneer of piety, a subtle temptation to assert his greatness lurked—a desire to leave a legacy that would eclipse all others. But God, in his infinite wisdom, saw beyond David’s fervor. He recognized a heart longing to please but susceptible to the allure of self-glory.

In a divine encounter, God gently redirected David’s zeal. Through the prophet Nathan, God unveiled his sovereign plan: David’s son would build the temple, and God would establish David’s dynasty forever. It was a humbling revelation, a reminder that God’s purposes transcend human aspirations. David’s aspirations collided with divine providence, and in that collision, humility triumphed.

Consider a modern-day scenario: John, a diligent employee, dreams of promotion. His hard work and dedication are commendable, but beneath the surface, a desire for recognition, for advancement at any cost, stirs. Yet, in a moment of clarity, John encounters God’s truth: true success lies in humble service, in trusting God’s timing and plan.

David’s journey serves as a timeless lesson in humility and surrender. His willingness to yield his desires to God’s will sets a precedent for all who seek to follow. Like David, we must confront the desires that lurk within, surrendering our ambitions at the feet of our Creator. For it is in brokenness that God finds delight, in hearts humbled before him.

David’s response to God’s redirection of his plans demonstrates a profound humility. Despite his initial eagerness to build a temple, David humbly accepts God’s will and acknowledges God’s sovereignty over his life and kingdom. He recognizes that true greatness lies not in the fulfillment of personal ambitions, but in aligning one’s will with the divine purpose.

As we reflect on David’s journey, let us examine our own hearts. Are there areas where pride and self-glory hinder our ability to submit to God’s will? Do we find ourselves striving for recognition and success, forgetting that true fulfillment comes from serving God with humility and obedience? Let us follow David’s example, surrendering our aspirations and ambitions to God, trusting in God’s perfect plan for our lives.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
In our pursuit of greatness, let us not overlook the beauty of humility—the willingness to yield our plans to God’s perfect purpose.

PRAYER
Lord, may our hearts be ever humble before You, recognizing Your sovereignty and surrendering our ambitions to Your will. Help us to follow David’s example, embracing humility and obedience in all areas of our lives. Amen.

Devotional

Lord of the Dance

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Read 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“But as the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David skipping about and laughing with joy, she was filled with contempt for him” (1 Chronicles 15:29 NLT).

Image created by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Copilot, an AI language model developed by Microsoft and powered by OpenAI.

I love to dance. Really, I do! If there’s music on, you can bet I’ll be moving, regardless of who’s watching. It doesn’t matter if someone drives by my house and sees me grooving to the beat—I’m in my own joyful world. And that’s what I think about when I read about King David dancing before the Lord with all his might.

In our passage today, we see King David, the mighty ruler of Israel, adorned in a linen ephod, dancing with all his might before the Ark of the Covenant as it is brought into the City of David. His heart overflowing with joy and gratitude, he is completely uninhibited in his worship of the Lord.

But amidst the celebration, there is one who watches with disdain—Michal, the daughter of Saul. She cannot fathom why a king would lower himself to such undignified behavior. In her eyes, David’s actions are unbecoming of royalty.

Yet David’s response to Michal’s criticism is a powerful reminder of the heart of true worship. He explains that his dancing is not for the approval of man but for the pleasure of God. David is willing to humble himself, even at the risk of appearing foolish in the eyes of others, because his sole desire is to honor and glorify the Lord.

This passage challenges us to examine our own worship practices. Are we willing to let go of our inhibitions and worship God with all our hearts, regardless of how others might perceive us? Are we more concerned with outward appearances or with offering genuine praise to the One who deserves it?

David’s example also teaches us the importance of embracing the freedom we have in Christ. True worship is not bound by tradition or protocol; it is an expression of the overflow of our love for God. Whether we choose to sing, dance, raise our hands, or simply bow in reverence, what matters most is the sincerity of our hearts.

In 1 Chronicles 15:29, we see a similar instance where David’s unrestrained worship is contrasted with Michal’s disapproval. As the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant entered the City of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. When she saw King David skipping about and laughing with joy, she was filled with contempt for him.

This passage further emphasizes the idea that true worship is not about conforming to societal norms or expectations, but about expressing our love for God with authenticity and sincerity. Just as David danced before the Lord with all his might, we too are called to worship God with uninhibited hearts, regardless of the opinions of others.

David’s dance was a spontaneous expression of his deep love and reverence for God. It was not choreographed or rehearsed; it was raw and authentic. Likewise, our worship should flow from the depths of our souls, unfiltered and genuine.

But let’s not overlook the significance of Michal’s reaction. Her disdain for David’s worship serves as a cautionary tale for us. How often do we allow the fear of man to hinder our worship? How many times have we held back our praise because we were worried about what others might think?

As we reflect on David’s example, let’s ask ourselves these questions: Are we willing to be vulnerable before God, laying bare our hearts in worship? Are we willing to let go of our pride and self-consciousness, surrendering fully to the One who deserves our utmost devotion?

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
True worship is not about impressing others but about expressing our love for God with sincerity and authenticity.

PRAYER
Lord, help us to worship You with all our hearts, unashamed and uninhibited. May our praise be pleasing to You, and may it draw us closer to Your heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

Shepherds of Unity

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Read 2 Samuel 5:1-5

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too” (Philippians 2:3-4 NLT).

Image created by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Copilot, an AI language model developed by Microsoft and powered by OpenAI.

When thinking of great leaders, King David and George Washington come to mind. Both figures led their people through challenging times, fostering unity and setting the foundation for future generations. Their stories provide timeless lessons on leadership, faith, and humility, not just for those in high positions but for each of us in our daily lives.

Let’s begin to put this to our collective historical memories. It’s the late 18th century, and the American colonies are in turmoil. After years of fighting for independence from British rule, the colonies are now free but far from united. Enter George Washington, a man respected for his courage and integrity. Despite the power he could wield, Washington, an Anglican, chooses to lead with humility and a focus on unity, eventually helping to create a nation from thirteen disparate colonies. His faith in God’s providence was a guiding force in his leadership, much like King David.

Now, let’s travel back in time to ancient Israel. David, anointed as king, faces a divided nation. For years, he has led Judah, but now the tribes of Israel come to him, seeking unity. They recognize his leadership and God’s hand upon him. David’s anointing as king over all Israel is a pivotal moment that transforms the scattered tribes into a cohesive nation.

David’s leadership was marked by God’s calling and the recognition of the people. His reign began in Judah and extended over all Israel, uniting the nation. This passage highlights the themes of unity, divine calling, and servant leadership. David was anointed not only because of his capabilities but also because he was chosen by God to shepherd His people. His leadership was deeply rooted in his faith and trust in God’s plan, which was evident from his early years as a shepherd boy to his rise as a mighty king.

Both David and Washington were called to lead in times of division. David’s anointing as king over all Israel and Washington’s role in unifying the American colonies are strikingly parallel. Each leader faced the challenge of bringing together different groups with varying interests and backgrounds. Their success lay in their reliance on higher principles: David on God’s guidance and Washington on the ideals of liberty and justice, underpinned by his trust in God’s providence. Their leadership was not about exerting power but about serving their people and fulfilling a greater purpose.

David and Washington’s leadership teaches us the importance of unity. In our personal lives, we often encounter situations that require us to bring people together—whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. We can take a proactive role in fostering harmony by promoting understanding and collaboration, much like these leaders did. When we act as peacemakers and bridge-builders, we reflect the unity that both David and Washington exemplified.

Both leaders depended on a higher power, trusting in God’s providence. In our daily lives, cultivating a deeper relationship with God and seeking God’s guidance can provide us with the wisdom and strength needed to navigate life’s challenges. Trusting in God means seeking divine direction in our decisions and being open to God’s leading in every aspect of our lives.

David and Washington exemplified humility. David’s humility before God and Washington’s voluntary step down from power are powerful reminders that true leadership is about serving others. We can lead by example through humble service, recognizing that our actions impact those around us. Being a servant leader means putting others’ needs before our own and striving to make a positive difference in their lives.

It’s important to remember that both David and Washington were flawed human beings. David’s grievous sins, including his affair with Bathsheba and the arranged death of her husband Uriah, serve as stark reminders of his humanity and susceptibility to sin. Similarly, Washington, while a revered figure, held slaves and struggled with the moral implications of slavery throughout his life. These flaws do not diminish their achievements but rather highlight the complexity of their characters. Their ability to seek forgiveness, strive for redemption, and continue leading with integrity despite their imperfections is a powerful testament to the resilience and grace found in trusting God.

Facing immense challenges with courage and perseverance, both leaders inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith. When we encounter difficulties, we can draw strength from God and remember past victories to keep moving forward. Their stories remind us that perseverance in the face of adversity is a key component of effective leadership and personal growth.

David and Washington sought to establish justice and righteousness. In our lives, acting with integrity and standing up for what is right reflects God’s principles and makes a significant impact on our communities. We are called to be people of integrity, making choices that honor God and promote justice for all.

Both leaders left legacies that shaped future generations. By living out godly values, we too can leave a positive legacy. Our daily actions, rooted in love and justice, can influence others and make a lasting difference. Our legacy is built day by day through our faithful actions and commitment to God’s purposes.

As we reflect on the lives of David and Washington, let us remember that leadership is not confined to grand titles or positions of power. True leadership begins in our hearts and is demonstrated through our daily actions. By fostering unity, relying on God’s guidance, serving others with humility, and standing up for justice, we can each make a significant impact in our communities. Let us strive to leave a legacy that honors God and inspires those around us.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Great leadership begins with small acts of faith, humility, and service.

PRAYER
Lord, help me to foster unity, act justly, and serve others with humility. Guide me in leaving a legacy that honors You. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI.

Devotional

Lord of the Dance

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Read 2 Samuel 6:16-22          

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“And David danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a priestly garment. So David and all the people of Israel brought up the Ark of the Lord with shouts of joy and the blowing of rams’ horns.”

I have always loved dancing and the physical bodily expression of music…art. That is perhaps why the hymn, Lord of the Dance, has always been one of my more favorite hymns. Here’s are some of my favorite parts of the hymn:

“I danced on the Sabbath and I cured the lame; the holy people said it was a shame. They whipped and they stripped and they hung me on high, and they left me there on a Cross to die…

“I danced on a Friday when the sky turned black; it’s hard to dance with the devil on your back. they buried my body and they thought I’d gone, but I am the Dance, and I still go on…

“They cut me down and I leapt up high; I am the life that’ll never, never die; I’ll live in you if you’ll live in me – I am the Lord of the Dance, said he…

“Dance, then, wherever you may be, I am the Lord of the Dance, said he, and I’ll lead you all, wherever you may be, and I’ll lead you all in the Dance, said he.”

Recently, I rewatched the 2022 film, ELVIS, as I love a good rock biopic and ELVIS is an extraordinary rock biopic. Seriously, if you have not watched it, you should do so now, even though I am not going to give any big spoilers in this at all. You know me, I run a tight no-spoiler ship. I promise you though, the film will shed light on things you probably did not know about Elvis, and one of those will be discussed in this devotion. Reader be warned.

We all know “Elvis the Pelvis”, which the King of Rock himself thought was a rather juvenile jab at his style of dancing and gyrating across the stage. Most people know that he was known for such dancing, and that parents weren’t all that happy to see their teenage sons and especially daughters embracing his behavior. Most of us “remember” whether we were alive to see it at the time or not, Elvis not being shown from the hips down so that television stations didn’t get fined by the FCC for lewd and inappropriate content.

Here, on the other hand, is what you might not have known. From 1953 to 1958, Elvis was doing something very radical and forward for his time. He was taking black Rhythm and Blues songs, making them up-tempo, and recording them. Elvis had a kind of voice that made people initially think he was a black singer; however, news quickly came out that this was a white boy singing black songs. The black community at the time, for the most part, embraced him; however, the white community did not in the slightest.

When Elvis broke out on the National stage in 1956, he was immediately hit with controversy. Parents were outraged that their children were watching him move his hips the way that he was. Yes, they were upset with sexual implications of the movements; however, that is not at the heart of why they were upset. The idea of their children being influenced, or perverted as they would have called it, by black culture what not acceptable or appropriate to most white people at the time.

What’s more, to further prove the point, Elvis was creating modern “rock and roll” out of black rhythm and blues while Civil Rights Activists were pushing for the Segregation laws to be lifted across the country and for blacks to be integrated with whites. In just 8 years, segregation would be no more…and integration was implemented. The bizarre and sinful white societal fear of white children getting corrupted by black culture was very real and, let’s be honest, it still is today (e.g. look at white culture’s’ reaction to Hip-Hop, Gangsta Rap, and other current forms of black music.

But Elvis kept on dancing despite of it. At one point he was convinced to not dance; however, that was short lived. The boy just couldn’t help himself. He didn’t just sing music, he felt it, embodied it, and performed it with his very being. Why? Well, first off, Elvis had tremendous stage fright and dancing took his mind off of his anxiety. It was an outlet for it – a release. Also, he grew up in the black community because his parents were too poor to live in the white community.

So, he was a victim of classism growing up and that led to him being segregated along with the blacks. His friends were mostly black as there were only 4 white kids on that side of town. What’s more, he grew up in the black, Pentecostal church. Meaning, he learned how to dance and gyrate from church; except, in church we of faith know this as being “moved by the Spirit.” It was an expression of his deep religious faith, which Elvis had his whole life, despite his personal struggles.

So, while “good Christian” white folks were complaining about Elvis’ moves, he was just doing what the Good Lord gifted him, through the Holy Spirit, to do. Now, I am not saying that it wasn’t sexual or anything like that. For the time, it would have been a shocker to any parent with or without the racial reasons; however, the racial reasons cannot be dismissed or denied.

What’s more, it also cannot be denied that God loves dancing. Look at how King David brought glory to God after conquering Jerusalem…Wait a minute, wasn’t it through dancing through its streets angering his wife because she thought that sort of wild behavior was beneath a king? Yet, David danced onward, and did not heed the criticism of his wife or others who thought he was embarrassing or inappropriate, just as Elvis kept dancing despite the controversy.

Friends, as the hymn suggests, Jesus is the very Lord of the Dance. He is the one who turns the water into wine at a dance-filled wedding reception. He is the one who laughs and plays with the children, who causes the crippled to leap on two legs, and the blind to see where the dance floor is. Our whole lives are a dance and we should not be afraid move around as the Spirit leads!  Jesus is the Lord of the Dance and we should celebrate and honor God through our dance and through our very being. I believe, despite the controversies and personal struggles, Elvis did that and I believe we all should be doing that as well!

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“I ain’t no saint, but I’ve tried never to do anything that would hurt my family or offend God…I figure all any kid needs is hope and the feeling he or she belongs. If I could do or say anything that would give some kid that feeling, I would believe I had contributed something to the world.” – Elvis Presley, 1950s

PRAYER
Lord, help me to learn to dance for you in all that I do, and to not be afraid to show my joy and delight in you! Amen.

Devotional, Previous Post

REVISITED: Ixnay the Cliché

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Read Micah 6:1-15

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Hate evil and love good, and establish justice in the gate; it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph.” (Amos 5:15)

The end justifies the means. That is a cliché that I think is predominant in our society and/or culture. The end justifies the means. All we need to do is turn on television and watch any of a plethora of television shows, all we need to do is to go to the theater and watch any given movie and we will see a whole lot of that cliché being played out. We see heroes compromising their values in order to bring about some supposedly better end…and using any means necessary to make that happen.

Beyond television shows and movies, politicians will often use any means necessary to bring about what they believe to be a better end. Politicians who cut people down and use political action committees to destroy the reputation of their opponents, simply because they believe they’d make the best leader. Businesses who look at the bottom dollar as the end goal and use whatever means necessary in order to make the bottom dollar work out in favor of the company. Often times, the means to attain that end involves coldly getting rid of people and treating employees as expendable numbers, rather than being compassionate and not treating people as if they are expendable.

We also see this cliché play out in our communities. We see our government take people’s homes and property away, declaring it as eminent domain, in order to better commercialize and bring more money into a town and/or region. We see people who will cut people off on the road to ensure they’re not going to be late getting to work, or to a play, or to the nearest roadside coffee shop. I have even witnessed people cutting around funeral processions in order to avoid getting stuck in those situations.

The point here is this, in order to live by the cliché of “the end justifying the means,” we have to ultimately compromise our character and our moral code. The cliché certainly, and explicitly, announces that. The end justifies the means. That is really a nice way of saying the following: while normally taking this action would be deemed bad and/or immoral, it is okay to do so here because, in the end, things will work out for the better. The end justifies the means. Whatever means it takes to reach the end is justified by virtue of the end that is trying to be reached.

The end justifies the means…or does it? When we look to Scripture we see a ton of examples as to how the end never, ever justifies the means. David is, perhaps the most compelling and obvious of people to look at in this regard. David would do just about anything to be king, and once he became king he did just about anything to keep himself and his family in power. He slept with Bathsheba and to avoid scandal had her husband killed. He offed his political rivals with shrewd and shady expediency, looking as if he had nothing to do with it. He knew he was God’s chosen king and that God was going to establish his kingdom forever, and he let that go to his head. As a result his kingdom, his reputation, his power, and his entire family came crashing down.

Not only does the end never justify the means, the reality is that often times the means changes and/or destroys the end. What’s more, the means changes and/or destroys us in the process. Let us not be a people who justify any and every means to reach an end. Let us not be a people who justify evil by the end we are trying to reach. Remember that our call, first and foremost, is to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, regardless of the end. In fact, there should be no other end but that, and that end will dictate the means. Live justly, love mercy, walk humbly. It’s simple, it’s honest, and it’s the narrow way that leads to God’s Kingdom.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. For the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” – Jesus, the Christ (Matthew 7:12-14)


PRAYER
Lord, I want to follow you in all that I do. Lovingly hold me accountable to your way and steer me clear of sin and evil. Amen.

Devotional, Previous Post

REVISITED: I WILL BE

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Read 2 Samuel 7:1-13

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
God said to Moses, “I [WILL BE] WHO I [WILL BE].” (Exodus 3:14)

Limited. If there is one word I can come up with when thinking about human beings, it is “limited.” We are limited in our perceptions, limited in our abilities, limited in our vision, and limited in just about every other aspect of our being. This is not a negative judgment, but rather an observation. In our minds, we love to imagine ourselves as being limitless. We watch TV shows and movies about superheroes who seem to be unlimited in their abilities, heroes who can literally fly to the moon and back in a single bound.

Yet, our reality is far different from the ideal we hold in our heads. The truth is that, as much as we would love to not have limits or bounds, we are totally limited. We are limited in our physical abilities, our psychological abilities, and we are limited emotionally as well. While all of this seems pretty pessimistic, and I am sure you are wondering what kind of point I could possibly be leading up to in this dour opening to a reflection, the truth is that this is not pessimistic. In fact, it is neither pessimistic or optimistic; rather, this is realistic.

What’s more, not only are we naturally limited in our capabilities but we limit ourselves in ways we should not be limited. While this is the case in a wide range of things, and across a wide range of people, I want to focus on Christians. While we are called to be a people of faith, we limit ourselves by our fear. We allow our fears to take over in our lives and we make them our lord rather than following our true Lord and Savior. We limit our understanding and conception of God as well. We build up church institutions, create polity to govern and control them, raise up church buildings, and fill those buildings with people. Over time, the people get so caught up in the institution, the polity, the buildings and their own little cloistered community that they end up limiting God to their own time, place and context.

In other words, they try and box God in. That’s not to say that God is actually boxed in or that God is actually limited; rather, it is people’s perceptions of God that are limited. This is nothing new, David wanted to box God in when he wanted to build God a house. God’s response to David was this: “Do I need you to build me a house? Am I not the God who created the world and all that is in it? Am I not the God who wandered with my people through the wilderness without any temple or house to live in? Do I really need a home? No, David! You will not build me a house.”

God WILL NOT be boxed in. Up on Sinai, when Moses asked who he should tell had sent him to free the Hebrews, God responded by saying “I AM WHO I AM. Tell them that I AM has sent you to them.” That phrase, “I AM WHO I AM”, can in Hebrew also be translated as “I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE.” God’s message to Moses, and to us as well, is that GOD IS. That God is with us, that God is always present with us. I AM WHO I AM. On top of that God is also reminding us, perhaps even warning us, I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE.

We cannot box God in. We cannot contain God and we can not have control over who God is or how God will manifest in the lives of others. Are you boxing God in? If so, in what ways? I challenge you to ask yourself those questions. Wrestle with them, for God wants you to trade in your perceptions for the reality and the universality of God’s presence and God’s love. GOD WILL NOT BE BOXED IN. The only house God wants to reside in is our hearts. I pray that, if you haven’t already, you open your hearts to the GOD. I pray that you are filled with the great I AM WHO I AM and that you are opened to the limitless possibilities of a God who WILL BE WHO GOD WILL BE.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Boxes are square or rectangular, have a beginning, an end, and are not infinite or eternal. God is not a box; rather, God is a circle of which has no beginning, no end and is both infinite and eternal.

PRAYER
Lord, help me not to limit who you are in my life or in my world. You are the great I AM, as well as the great I WILL BE. Amen.

Christian Liturgical Season, Devotional, Previous Post

A LOOK BACK: Forgiven

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This week kicks off the most important season in the Christian liturgical calendar. Lent, Holy Week, and Easter remind us of our sinful nature, the cost that our sin ultimately cost, and the hope of the Resurrection in Jesus Christ who conquered the grave. Ash Wednesday kicks off the season of Lent, a 40 day period that parallels Jesus temptation in the wilderness and the 40 years the Israelites spent wandering the wilderness in search of the Promised Land. Click here to kick off your Ash Wednesday on the right foot.

Devotional

God’s People, part 60: Adonijah

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Read 1 Kings 1:5-10

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11 NLT)

When we think of God’s people, we tend to think one of two things. We might think of the Israelites who were God’s “chosen people”, or we might think of specific characters in the Bible. Either way, we tend to idealize the people we are thinking about. For instance, we may think that God’s people are super faithful, holy, perform miracles and live wholly devout and righteous lives. Unfortunately, this idealism enables us to distance ourselves from being God’s people, because we feel that we fall short of those ideals. As such, I have decided to write a devotion series on specific characters in the Bible in order to show you how much these Biblical people are truly like us, and how much we are truly called to be God’s people.

Part 60: Adonijah. The story of Adonijah much reminds me of Jesus teaching about humility in Luke 14, just prior his telling of the Parable of the Great Feast. In that teaching he warned the gathered people to not sit in the places of honor, but at the lowest place at the table. In doing so, one would avoid being dishonored by being asked to move to a place of lower status in front of all the people at the table and would, more than likely, be honored when the host asks one to move from the lowest place to a place more prominent.

Jesus’ words are wise and they are not meant merely as a “play it safe rather than sorry” suggestion. Jesus is, rather, guiding those who will be taught by him to not think too highly about themselves. Humility, simply, is knowing one’s place. It is not self-denigration; however, it is not self-engrandizement either. While Jesus’ teaching refers to social status, his wisdom is regarding Spiritual Humility. Such humility recognizes that none of us are better than “the least of these” because, from the least to the greatest, we are all God’s created children.

If only Adonijah had been given those wise and timely words. It’s never easy being less than the eldest brother in the royal family. Only the eldest could be the heir to the throne. Only the eldest could one day be king, unless the eldest died. Even then, Adonijah was not second eldest but third eldest. He was third in line. He could pretty much bank on NEVER being the King, not because he was unqualified (as he could not think of anyone more qualified than he was) but because of circumstance.

Yes, I am writing this a bit tongue-in-cheek; however, it is clear that Adonijah thought pretty highly of himself and he was quite thrilled (I mean, who wouldn’t be?) when his two eldest brothers died and were no longer in his way. It was Adonijah chance to rise up and take the throne for himself! He would be the one in power and could rule the kingdom!

The only problem with that comes in one word: SOLOMON. Because of his love for Bathsheba, David had declared that he willed for Solomon to be his heir. So, rather than rightfully taking the throne, Adonijah actually stages a coup and tries, like his brothers before him, to usurp David’s kingdom. As can be seen in the scriptures, it doesn’t go well for Adonijah. In the end, he fled for his life and was temporarily spared only to be killed by Solomon once he assumed power.

Adonijah could have served a great purpose for God. Who knows what God had in store for him; however, the corruption of his father and brothers spread to him and he sought power and authority rather than God. As a result, he ended up cutting what ties may have been left with his half-brother Solomon and betraying his father’s trust. All that did, in the end, is lead to his demise. The question for us is this, how do we allow our earthly ambitions to get between us and our God-given purpose? Be challenged by that question and seek out God’s will over your own!

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” – St. Augustine

PRAYER
Lord, protect me from becoming proud so that I might be honored to serve you in the exact ways you created me to. Amen.

Devotional

God’s People, part 55: King’s Will

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Read 1 Chronicles 28

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE

“Then David died and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David.” (‭1 Kings‬ ‭2:10‬ ‭NLT‬‬)‬‬‬

When we think of God’s people, we tend to think one of two things. We might think of the Israelites who were God’s “chosen people”, or we might think of specific characters in the Bible. Either way, we tend to idealize the people we are thinking about. For instance, we may think that God’s people are super faithful, holy, perform miracles and live wholly devout and righteous lives. Unfortunately, this idealism enables us to distance ourselves from being God’s people, because we feel that we fall short of those ideals. As such, I have decided to write a devotion series on specific characters in the Bible in order to show you how much these Biblical people are truly like us, and how much we are truly called to be God’s people.

  Part 55: King’s Will. God, through the prophet Nathan had specifically told David that he was not the one to build a Temple for God to “live” in. First, God questioned David’s motives and thinking by asking, “Did I, who brought Israel up out of slavery in Egypt, ever ask for such home? Do I require a temple of cedar, or a home to be boxed into? No, you will not build me such a home; rather, I will build a home, a dynasty, for you! I will raise up your seed following you and will establish his throne forever” (2 Samuel 7:11-13, paraphrased).

What’s more, in 1 Chronicles 28:3, the author has David reveal that God said he had too much blood on his hands and was not fit for building God’s Temple. What is important to note here is that both of these texts (2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles) were written after the time of David and Solomon and so these texts are recording the history of these two EPIC characters as remembered by the people of a time long after David and Solomon had passed.

Thus, it is fair to ask this question. Was the “seed” that God spoke of referring to Solomon, or someone else. Was Solomon the one to whom God gave the honor to build the Temple? Was Solomon the one who’s rule would last forever? Or, was seed referring to one of David’s descendants…down the line…someone, shall we say, such as Jesus of Nazareth, the Messiah, the son of God? That certainly could easily be read into this text, coming from a Christian perspective, as Jesus was of the line of David.

The word “seed” can mean both immediate offspring, or it can mean descendant and different English translations come down differently in translating that word. On top of that, we know that Solomon’s rule did not last forever and, following Solomon’s death, the Kingdom of Israel divided and broke up, with the Kingdom of Israel in the North and the Kingdom of Judah in the South. These two Kingdoms would war against each other throughout the rest of the Hebrew Scriptures and the animosity they had toward each other lasted right up until the Assyrian Infiltration of the Northern Kingdom and the Babylonian exile of Judah. Even beyond that, the animosity still existed in Jesus’ day (e.g. the Samaritans).

So, it is debatable as to whether or not God ever intended David, or Solomon, to build God’s temple. In fact, it is debatable as to whether God, who is imageless and demands that no images (and houses are an “image” of sorts) be built for worship, ever wanted a temple built in the first place. Perhaps, the temple God that God says David’s seed will build is the same temple that Jesus refers to in various places…the temple of the human heart, where God most wishes to have a home.

Yet, King David ends up asserting his own will over and above God’s. In 1 Chronicles 28, David instructed his son Solomon on how to construct the Temple. In other words, even if David was not be the one to see the building to completion, he still had his imprint on how it was to look. God said, “No” to David’s request to build a Temple, but David found a loophole and ensured his will, NOT God’s, was carried out. While the Temple is a debatable disobedience of God, there are other sins David committed (e.g. taking a census of God’s people in 2 Samuel 24) that are explicitly shown to be sinful.

We, like David, are prone to put our will above God’s. We pray, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done”, but often are actions are reflecting the opposite of that prayer, “My kingdom come, my will be done.” The question for us is this, will we go on making idols of ourselves? Will we carry on in our sinful self-worship, or will we finally open our hearts as holy Temples for the living God? The choice is ours.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

“You are believing not in your god but in yourself if your god knows no better than you do…and yet, in this alone, I am afraid, you have already been fooling yourself.” – Criss Jami

PRAYER

Lord, you are God. I am not. Remind me that to worship you I must submit to your will for my life and trust that your ways are better than my own. Amen.