December 12—David, the Unlikely King

“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (Full context: 1 Samuel 16:1-13)

In this setting, the LORD has begun the process of raising up a new king for Israel. King Saul has shown he is not dedicated to God, and so the LORD has rejected him. The priest Samuel knows the LORD will choose a son of Jesse, but he is judging them with his own eyes. The LORD speaks to Samuel to teach him about what the LORD looks for.

As we finish another election cycle, we’ve had to make judgements about others. This includes the candidates and our own friends and family members, many of whom we’ve had sharp disagreements with. We rarely have the time to get to know people or to investigate the issues thoroughly. Too often we judge others based on whether we like them or not, instead of having the time to observe their fruit. We know they judge us as well, and we long to be known for who we really are, and not just how we appear in public.

In this Christmas season we are reminded of the one who truly got to know us, and sent us what we really needed. God knows all our actions and knows our desires. And He desires an even closer relationship with us. God sent us His son, not only to save us, but also so that we can see more of who He is. In this Christmas season, we have been gifted the best friend and the most intimate relationship imaginable.
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~Michael Raymond

Ornament Credit:  Maureen and Jadon Ambore