Readings for today: 1 Kings 2:1-3:2, Acts 5, Psalms 125, Proverbs 16:25
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” (Proverbs 16:25)
We are all a mix of contradictions. David was a man after God’s own heart and yet at the end of his life seems to die a bitter, vindictive, vengeful man. He orders the death of Joab. A man whose military prowess had won David his kingdom. Twice! David knew Joab was a violent and spiteful man but accepted his service as long as it served his purposes. He orders the death of Shimei, the son of Gera. A man who cursed David when he fled from Absalom. Rather than forgive, David holds onto his grudge and seals Shimei’s fate. Who knows how many others made their way onto David’s “hit list” before he died? Who knows how many scores he settled? Not a good way to go out.
Solomon isn’t much better. Despite being beloved by God and given the gift of great wisdom, Solomon too acts like a petty warlord at times. He sends his enforcer Benaiah to kill Adonijah, his own brother, after he makes a subtle play for the throne. He then exiles Abiathar the priest. He sends Benaiah to execute Joab literally on the altar of God and then to kill Shimei after he fails to keep his word to Solomon. It’s a naked and blatant and brutal consolidation of power.
So we turn to the New Testament looking for hope only to run into Ananias and Sapphira. A couple who concoct a scheme to defraud God and His church. They want credit for their generosity even as they hold back profit for themselves. Their sin leads to sudden death as they literally drop at Peter’s feet. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose their soul in the process?
These are hard stories to read that remind us of the total depravity of humanity. We pursue our own selfish ends so much of the time. How often, when we are hurt, do we choose vengeance over forgiveness? How often do we use people to get ahead? How often do we exaggerate our accomplishments? Deceive others into thinking we are better than we actually are all in the pursuit of self-promotion? These are the corrupt ways of humanity and the Bible makes no bones about where they lead.
How much better the way of Christ? The way of love? The way of grace? The way of mercy? The way of peace? It’s a narrow way to be sure. Many would rather choose the wide path that leads to destruction. It’s a hard way to be sure. Many would rather choose the easy path that leads to slavery and addiction. It’s an impossible way in our own strength and wisdom. But what is impossible for us is not impossible for God! He has made a way. Charted a new path. Blazed a new trail through His Son in our world and those who follow Him receive eternal life as their reward. Reject the way of death. Choose the way of life. Let Jesus be your guide!
Readings for tomorrow: 1 Kings 3:3-4:34, Acts 6, Psalms 126, Proverbs 16:26-27