Old Testament reading: 1 Samuel 21-23
Shakespeare called jealousy a “green eyed monster” (Othello). If this be the case, Saul’s eyes were surely greener than the richest emerald. 1 Samuel 23 reveals what may be the lowest point of Saul’s reign. In chapter 21 David lies to Ahimelech, saying he is on a secret mission from Saul. Ahimelech helps David and his men, offering them the sanctified bread to eat (which was only lawful for the priests (v 4, cf Mark 2:23-28). Later, Saul comes and accuses Ahimelech of conspiring against him in the matter of David. Ahimelech defends David’s integrity first, calling him the most faithful of all of Saul’s servants, reminding Saul that David is his son-in-law, and is honorable in Saul’s house. Finally, the priest defends himself, noting his ignorance of Saul’s contention with David. What is Saul’s response? He has Ahimelech and more than 80 other priests murdered at the hand of Doeg the Edomite. Additionally, Doeg utterly destroys every living thing in Nob – men, women, children and beasts. Reading this account both disgusts and infuriates me! But I am reminded that serving God faithfully with integrity of heart is no magic shield against persecution or martyrdom.
New Testament reading: Mark 11-12
“Just who do you think you are?” Mark 11 contains one of my favorite exchanges between Jesus and his detractors. In verses 27-28, the chief priests, scribes and elders challenged Jesus and his authority saying, “By what authority do you do these things? And who gave You this authority to do these things?” Jesus’ response was classic beyond measure. Rather than address them directly concerning the matter of authority, He challenged their own self made claim of discernment. By their questioning, they had set up themselves as authorities in the matter of authority. Jesus asked them a simple question, and in so doing exposed their weakness, their lack of resolve and their hypocrisy. Surely they left with their heads down and tails between their legs, as Jesus had quickly and concisely “taken them to the woodshed.” From this account we learn that time should not be wasted debating those who have no real interest in truth. Some folks don’t deserve an answer.
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