3 February 2022
When David’s time to die drew near, he charged his son Solomon, saying: ‘I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, be courageous, and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his ordinances, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn.
From 1 Kings 2:1-4,10-12, NRSV
In today’s reading we hear of the ending of the long and eventful life of King David. After some dispute amongst his family and supporters, it was eventually decided that his son Solomon would be David’s successor. We hear David passing on some advice about how to ensure stability and good leadership for the people. David’s foremost advice is that of faithfulness and obedience to God. It could be said that David had learned the importance of this the hard way since he endured much suffering as a consequence of his own sinfulness and failures in obedience. However, as he neared his end, David knew that his successor and his people could only prosper if they put God first.
- Why do you think David wanted to pass on this advice to his successor?
- Have you ever benefitted from the advice given to you by a predecessor?
Pray today for all who are in positions of authority and power; that they will learn from the past and be compassionate and just in their treatment of others.
