March 14, 2024 - 1 Samuel 20-24

When King Saul was trying to kill David, Saul’s son, Jonathan interceded for David and Saul relented.  The writer continues to describe the close friendship of David and Jonathan.  Jonathan’s help continued as he and David came up with a covert way by which Jonathan could inform David as to the mood of Saul.  Jonathan would go out and shoot three arrows and, depending upon where they landed, David would know if it was safe to return to the palace.  What a blessing to have friends who will stand with us, as we put it, “through thick and thin.”  This friendship provides a picture of the relationships we have with fellow believers.  We look out for one another.  We pray for one another.  We stand together.  And, as Paul puts it, we hurt when others hurt and rejoice when others rejoice:  “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).  Lots more here with additional stories about Saul’s mistreatment of David and the Lord’s protection of David.  David often writes about these matters in the Psalms (Maybe, tomorrow?).  For now, we give thanks for those who walk with us through life, always caring for us as close, close friends.  Even more, we give thanks for the One who to us is closer even than a brother:  “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24).

In the midst of earthly life

Snares of death surround us;

Who shall help us in the strife

Lest the Foe confound us?

Thou only, Lord, Thou only.

We mourn that we have greatly erred,

That our sins Thy wrath have stirred.

Holy and righteous God!

Holy and mighty God!

Holy and all-merciful Savior!

Eternal Lord God!

Save us lest we perish

In the bitter pangs of death.

Have mercy, O Lord!   --Martin Luther (16th century)