Word to the Wise
Wednesday, January 18, 2012 - Wednesday in the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
[1 Sam 17:32-33, 37, 40-51 and Mark 3:1-6]All this multitude, too, shall learn that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord daves. For the battle is the Lord's and he shall deliver you into our hands.
Those who are familiar with the exchanges between competitors in the media before a big sporting event will recognize the kind of talk that is exchanged between David and Goliath! This is one of the most famous stories in the Old Testament! We Americans, especially, love to see the "lone ranger/little guy" win over the "big bad guy!" It's the stuff of legend.
The story is designed to encourage the Children of Israel to persevere in the face of great odds and to put their trust in God's providence. The model has very contemporary applications besides sports events! Political elections, business, health care, etc. - they all provide us with examples of individuals who go to battle with very large "foes" and prevail by their faith and tenacity. In the case of David, it didn't hurt that he was an expert with that sling. I am reminded of the Arab proverb, "Trust in God and tie up your camel." God's providence and David's aim work together!
Colorful stories like this one can help our imagination to encounter God's providence in our own overwhelming situations. If we feel like David, then we might be willing to have the same faith and take careful aim! AMEN