Wednesday's thoughts

What I've been working through in my mind this week is the comparison between Jesus and David; how they are alike and how they differ.
This is some of what I've found:
1. David was a military leader who made many conquests for his people, and Jesus was a peace maker who worked to bring people together and who tried to help people learn of love their enemies.
2. David had many wives and there was a part of his story that involved Bathsheba. It was a national scandal. David had many offspring. Jesus never married although there is some speculation that Jesus did marry Mary Magdalene. I don't see much credible evidence in that.
3. David was brave in conquest. He stood up to Goliath, a frightening foe, and he defeated him with a sling shot. Jesus was brave in confrontation. He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. He came with only weapon; the truth of the Gospel.
4. David lived to an old age. He made a name for himself. Jesus died at age 33. His death was premature. He, too, made a name for himself.

There are other similarities and differences between David and Jesus. When it is said that Jesus is the "son of David" it is a statement about the lineage and influence of Israel's greatest hero on the author of the Christian faith.

Do you see other similarities or ways in which the influence is compelling? Write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net

I look forward to hearing from you.


Charles