Gratis

1 Kings 5:6

“So give orders that cedars of Lebanon be cut for me. My men will work with yours, and I will pay you for your men whatever wages you set. You know that we have no one so skilled in felling timber as the Sidonians.”

Around 15 years ago, my homechurch staged a big musical production for Holy Week. I think it was a fund raiser of some sort because I remember us selling tickets. My assignment was more on the musical side, while a committee was formed to attend to logistics, resource and all. But of course we have to help each other whenever and wherever needed.  I volunteered to tap in friends to do our backdrop. My mindset then was to cut some costs. Somehow I managed to get the commitments of three excellent artists, who were also my good friends. They did so well, it was very much commended, and I was even proud to have their services for free, along with my other guest singers. Looking back I think I was unfair, not to mention, I believe I dishonored God by my cheap offering. I may not afford them before the production, but I could have at least pushed for a budget allotment to bless them with a share of the returns.  

It was God orchestrated that at the planning stage of the temple project, Hiram, king of Tyre, sent an envoy to congratulate the newly enthroned Solomon. I’m sure it’s the same feeling when we’re working on something so big and every circumstance are taken in connection to it. “An answered prayer! Just what we need!” - could be Solomon’s blurted excitement. He immediately sent back a message and invited Hiram to the project as a major supplier. The cedars of Lebanon are unparalleled and the Sidonians are exemplary in felling timbre - - just perfect and befitting for God’s glorious temple. Since it was his initiative for partnership, Solomon saw the need to assure him that the men will be given wages in acknowledgement for their skill, and Hiram can set the price. In the previous chapter we read about other countries bringing tribute to Israel, I wonder why not here?  Hiram was on friendly terms with his father David, why not tickle on that relationship? I guess the answer lies on the literal foundation of this project. It was exactly that place where Araunah offered his threshing floor for David’s free use, and the king declined. Solomon knows the story. It was the place where justice and grace met, and the temple he’s building will likewise operate exactly on those truths. It couldn’t be cheap. It had to be costly.

I think it’s already part of the Pinoy culture to count on built-relationships to acquire favors. We call it pakikisama, the mother of utang na loob.  I don’t want to be legalistic about it, but in reference to our context today, I think it’s dishonoring to God to abuse it in service-oriented matters. ‘By the sweat of our brow, you will eat your food’. It’s how many of us make our living. It’s an awkward position especially for ministries and Christian workers because of the argument of the free gospel. But could we at least factor in their transpo expense or food allowance or further studies? And who says the gospel is free? Didn’t Jesus pay a high price for our salvation? It’s never cheap because it was His life for ours. It was the right computation. So how do we see our friend’s labor of love? If we factor in their time, their sacrifices, their expertise - - isn’t it worth more than a tap on the shoulder? Be God’s rewarder to their hardwork.  Pray and trust God for His provision!

The Best Me

1 Kings 4:33

“He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish.”

Nature vs Nurture? Who’s really responsible for who we are now? Physically, science has proven heredity. Health issues point both. But how about personality or attitudes? My dad blames my mom for my nose and hair, haha! I grew up hearing that and so I resented the idea. Add to that the society’s high regard for fine features and photoshopped hair. What started as genetics affected the emotions and became an attitude. As a solution, some have resorted to genetic alterations, which I believe is but an insult to our Creator.  I chose A.I. - - acceptance and improvement.  I praise Him for who I am and I will glorify Him by working on being the best me, that is, by taking care of my body and by taking control of my attitudes. Now that’s being responsible.

Solomon, by virtue of bloodline, inherited not just the throne but reaped the harvest of his father’s hardwork. Most of his chief officials were and sons of David’s trusted men. His rule extended beyond Dan to Beersheba, all enjoying peace and plenty, mainly as a result of his predecessor’s conquests. The path to righteousness was laid before him and God’s favor continued to overflow all in light of David’s faithful walk and upright heart. Solomon witnessed it all, and if ever those genes really worked, both nurture and nature paid off. But chapter 4 presents us with a  rule  beyond raw. Sure Solomon had the loyalty of David’s men, but he worked on his share of the relationship as proven by the two marriages of his daughters to his governors. David may have left him a structure for government, but here we see a systematized one. It may already be all peace and plenty, but not just as an overview. Solomon made sure it was felt at every home.  Every raw gift was cultivated ‘til it grew. Even the wisdom God gave Him was never stagnant in his yard. The text said ‘he taught’. Every teacher knows the hardwork it entails to move from being a learner to becoming a teacher. And learning never stops. Solomon did his fair share. He glorified God by being the best him.

I so love the principle behind the Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty. Theirs is to celebrate the natural physical variation embodied by all women and inspire them to have the confidence to be comfortable with themselves.  God has given each one a beauty, a talent, a skill. Blaming nature and nurture for the limitations which could have instead turned us to becoming great springs up from looking at another’s fence instead of discovering our own. God was not unfair, we are. All we do is stargaze in our dark holes of self pity and hopelessness which was neither given nor acquired. We allowed it to control us. Be free! Truth says we are wonderfully made! We’re created in the image of God Himself. We may be marred because of sin, but His grace can transform us back into the likeness of His Son. A gift that we have to accept in faith, and in gratitude and obedience we have to faithfully cultivate. Are you up and ready for today's question - - who is the best you?

They’ll Say Wow!

1 Kings 3:28

“When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice.”

Today marks the 6th month of the curriculum project I have been assigned to. Let me emphasize: assigned. Given an option, I wouldn’t take it. First, because the material is first of its kind, meaning there’s no luxury for cross reference. Second, it’s my first time to write a full-length curriculum. I feel not just inexperienced, but so unequipped. Third, because I’m one and alone in this department. No option to delegate, I can’t even quit. But since my reasons are all but excuses, it’s still on my lap.  And because this is God’s call and it is His work, His blessings followed.  I may not have comparative studies to refer to, but He opened a thousand windows of related articles as resource; I was new in writing and so He pushed me to daily practice the skill. I’m unbelievably way past my hundredth blog now; I started as the sole writer, roughly finishing the first draft, but two weeks ago, He graced me with no less than one of the country’s best Music Educators as consultant. God is just amazing! I’m in awe seeing His wisdom at work. And it is with hope that soon, many will say wow seeing this project, surely not because of me, but for His undeniable imprint on each of its pages. His glory is my goal! Now that’s my push to keep me going, never quitting. I think I need to copy-paste this on my work folder :>

Immediately after his one wish to have a discerning heart to govern his people, the young king Solomon had his first test. Since God’s gift was through a dream, he may have struggled a bit. Maybe not about God’s sincerity-slash-ability, but more if he heard Him right. ‘Wisdom. Is it really now in me?’  He’s now in his courtroom and before him were two prostitutes, each claiming to be the mother of one baby. That’s all he got. No witnesses, no clues. This was one unprecedented case. Maybe it was first brought to the lower courts. But having no reference to compare notes with, they admitted it was beyond their skills, and so  they decided for the ultimate move up. It’s all up to Solomon now. Inexperienced, unequipped, alone, can’t quit - - I’m sure he felt it all too. The account did not mention that he prayed, but it was nowhere said that he didn’t either. In using a test to surface out the truth proved he was depending on God to provide him with clues. In listening to both sides, he made use of what is all available at hand. He did not dare give a verdict ‘til all ends were tied. He exhausted all efforts. He did his part. And God honored Solomon’s seeking for justice. It was, after all, God’s work through him.

“The people were in awe because he had wisdom from God”.  There was nothing in Solomon to wow the public. He was young, the first heir to be king, and he was new in office. He was here the reflection of the young Jesus who amazed all the teachers in the temple courts with his answers and understanding. It was way beyond his years. But when you’re sitting next to the radiance of God, who would not notice? For when you ask God  for wisdom, He pours it so generously that it’s undeniably out of this world. Our tasks today may look uncharted and unpromising, but if it is God’s work and He’s calling us in to join Him, it will definitely not be without His blessings. And yes, our goal is to wow the public - - for His glory is praiseworthy! His glory is our goal! May it be the push to keep us going, never quitting.

One Wish

1 Kings 3:12-14

“I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart... moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for – both riches and honor...  and if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands, ...I will give you a long life.”

When I was a child, I always hope I’d somehow find that magic oil lamp and be granted three wishes. Mine then was to own Goya Fun Factory, for Voltes V to come alive, and to see Disneyland of course.  But since I never saw that lamp, blowing out birthday candles and tossing  coins in the wishing well became the alternates. I think I also did message in a balloon and a list for Santa, hehe :> But that’s what I believed in as a child. Somehow, a wish is that desire for something so far within reach but you hope to receive in an instant. Deep inside, you know it’s just impossible to happen. But at least you wished. Who knows?

Solomon was one blessed man to be granted one wish by the Almighty Himself. His was not a wish-upon-a-star thing, or some will of the wind toss. He was face to face with God. While some of us could have readily blurted out our wants given such opportunity, Solomon started with humble statements. It was not the typical Pinoy beating around the bush, trying not to appear overly and obviously excited. The depth of his request is proof enough that his opening words was in sincere acknowledgement of God’s graciousness to their family. He did not refuse the offer either, signifying his dependence for God’s hand on the matter. His one wish was wisdom - - a discerning heart to govern the people and to distinguish between right and wrong. Couldn’t he ask that in an installment basis, as the needs arise perhaps? Why not go with  Google’s  popular answers like be a millionaire or good health, world peace or have superman powers, even access to unlimited wishes maybe? Here we see his heart was all set not on his personal welfare or safety. Doing God’s will was top of his list. But why not security and wealth for the land, that’s not selfish thinking right? But is that what really the land needs, or is it just feeding them with wants.

Verse 10 said “God was pleased that he asked for this’.  As a parent, when my kids are sleeping especially, I often utter a prayer for God to grant me long life so I could take care of them as they grow up; wealth so we could provide for their health and education; and, safety for them, from bad influences and evil at large. I know this is God’s will for me, my duty as a parent. But pondering on Solomon’s wish, being likewise given a trust, shouldn’t wisdom be top of my list as well? I could spend many years with my kids, but without God’s wisdom, will those years even significantly count? If I could have the riches of  this world, will that guarantee our family’s happiness? And if I ask God for a problem-free life for them, how can they ever learn faith and hope? How else can they appreciate grace? Wisdom may not  appear as a pack of instant noodles to free you from hunger now, but it will definitely teach you how to find and make food for yourself, to free you from poverty for the days to come.  You may wish for wisdom anytime, and guess what? God may even add items to your cart which you did not wish for, say riches and honor? Solomon got a truckload. Who knows? :>

Still In Love?

1 Kings 3:3

“Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the statutes of his father David, except that he offered sacrifices and burned incense on the high places.”

Falling in love. It’s the greatest feeling of all. It brings you so high in your emotions, so deeply concerned for the person, and so widely open to endless hopes. It’s so powerful it makes your heart helpless and uncontrollable, thus the ‘falling’ suggests. You can’t eat, can’t sleep, can’t work - - so it’s fatal too, hahaha. Every second seems to revolve around that person. Your thoughts are filled with him - - every word he said, every move he made, even details of how he looked that day.  Yes, I can still vividly remember how Tris and I climbed that big tree in UP lagoon eight years ago. He could have literally fallen because of me. But up there with him, I just knew I’d do and give and be everything for him. Anything to please him. I emailed Tris a picture of that tree just now. Brings back beautiful memories…. and promises made.    

Whenever we hear the name Solomon, what usually follows is that we remember his wisdom and his wives (fyi: 700 official wives, 300 concubines!!). Only now did I realize we’re missing out one big word that defines him, one that came before his fame and big family - - LOVE. That’s right, I’m quite surprised myself. His parents may have given him a name which means peace, appropriately because of their restored fellowship with God, but then God sent Nathan to give him the name Jedidiah, meaning ‘loved by the Lord’. From peace to love, such grace! And he sure saw the full extent of that love when he was chosen to be next to the throne. Overwhelmed with that favor, we read now in verse three that ‘Solomon showed his love to the Lord’. He loved because God loved him first. He loved and so he walked according to the statutes. But like the rest of mankind, he allowed many things to come in between of that first love. Marrying Pharaoh’s daughter could just be political and sacrificing to the high places may  be the norm that time, but how could he not see that it is far from the pleasure of his Beloved?  Where was that promise of doing and giving and being everything for Him? Quite sad that we only remember him now as the Wise. Without love, isn’t everything meaningless?

When was the last time you felt so inloved with the Lord? And now? Has it been years or months? What stood in between? Are you really that busy with work that you completely forgot your ‘dates’ with Him? Did you found someone better? You sure? Did He love you less? Impossible. Try to go back to that time you first promised love to Him. Think about Him. What were His words to you? What did He do just for you? And what did you promise back? We’ve been carrying His name everyday - - saying we’re Christians and all - - but how many times we preferred to be called  Dr., Atty., Prof., Sir, Mrs., etc? Even the wisest who ever lived said such were vain efforts, and so he ended Ecclesiastes with these words: ‘Fear God and keep his commands’. Uhm, where is love there? Jesus gave us the answer: ‘If you love me, obey my commands’. Ready to go back to your first love? If you’re having a hard time remembering when was your special time with Him - -  look at the cross! That’s how special you are to Him!

Second Chance

1 Kings 2:24

“And now, as surely as the Lord lives – he who has established me securely on the throne of my father David and has founded a dynasty for me as he promised – Adonijah shall be put to death today!”

I have my discipline guidelines set. One disobedience, one spank. If Rilian’s hits Kjaran by the hand, the rod will fall hard on that hand. If he stomps his feet in tantrums, his legs will get the scolding. If he snarls aloud in defiance, I tap his mouth to make my point. This might not be agreeable to some moms, but it’s quite effective for us.  Anyway, one time, after giving him a spank for disobeying, he turned and made an angry growl at me. And then as if it surprised him as well, he shifted gears and blurted, ‘Ay, sorry mom!’ For a few seconds I stood there not knowing what to do next. My book says I have to scold him for the snarl, but this was admittedly unguarded. I decided to take a step back and leave him with a warning. I was not sure then if I did it right.

First on Solomon’s to-do-list as newly enthroned king were discipline issues. Not a very nice welcome assignment right? Especially if first in line is your own brother. Good thing Adonijah chose to bow in surrender after his caught-rebellion. So was Shimei, David’s curse-r. Both admitted their wrongdoings and so was given another chance. Guess I did right with Rilian that time. But Solomon did not just let go. He implied that his eyes are on them. Alongside giving a second chance is to make sure they are now accountable for their actions. Discipline is a necessary follow through for the rebellious. Since they have breached the trust, they have to prove their loyalty back. Sadly, these two men never learned their lesson. Or probably, repentance never really took place.  Adonijah’s scheme to have David’s last concubine proved he’s still eyeing the crown, while Shimei was caught breaking his sworn oath by leaving Jerusalem without permission. Both faced death by the sword. They have been warned. But they gave away that second chance.

As leaders, parents, or teachers, let us be mindful of those who cry out for mercy. It is true that every sin has its consequences, but every repentant sinner needs a second chance too. We do have a merciful God and His patience stretches to giving us nth chances right? But read again the qualifier: repentant. Context? Insubordination. For Joab was still killed for the murder of Abner and Amasa, not because he conspired against Solomon's authority. Withholding punishment for discipline doesn’t mean disregarding the offense. It merely changes its form to positive measures, moving the rebellious from being passive receivers to active responders. But this implies taking responsibility as leaders. Shifting to yield mode is signing a conforme that says we’re keeping an eye on them. If we’re giving them a second chance, we have to be there until they’re fully submissive. It’s no accident that forgiveness has the word ‘give’ in it. Quite a thought. Still pondering here….

In Fairness

1 Kings 2:6-7

“Deal with him according to your wisdom, but do not let his gray head go down to the grave in peace. But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai of Gilead and let them be among those who eat at your table. They stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom.”

Too often, what adults put aside, kids beautifully displays affront.  Little things that I take for granted, my little tots marvel at, laugh about, and thank God for. Just now, I gave a banana to Rilian and delightfully he exclaimed, ‘Ang sarap nito mom ah! Thank you Jesus!’. Or the other day, Kjaran showed me her shoes and said, ‘Mom, o, pretty’. I know it was God telling me to stop and praise. Not stop and complain. Because what normally grabs my attention, what makes me leave the computer table, is their loud scream or the mess they created. It takes effort and (their) prompting for me to mind their little achievements. Generous to scold, cautious with praise - - such imbalance :<

At his deathbed, David called in Solomon for his final charge. Given minimal time to delegate, he has to sift through his forty years reign and identify the most important. ‘Be strong’ was his first point. He opened his eyes to the reality of the task at hand. But instead of strategies and solutions, he armed him with strength. ‘Walk in His ways’ was next. He assured him of the promise and presence of God. David need not give details of how to run a kingdom for God’s law is suffice for faith and practice. Solomon just needs to faithfully abide. Third was about three people: Joab the backstabber, Shimei the curse-r, and Barzillai the old man.  David asked his son to mind his unfinished business and deal with them accordingly. To Joab and Shimei, for the wrong they did, and to Barzillai, for the kindness he gave.  An exact application of the firmness and faith he’s charging his son to embrace. He needs one and the other on both sides of the scale. For a leader is not called merely to police the violators and warn the public, but one who upholds good deeds to inspire the people and further promote God. He’s both the God of mercy and the God of wrath. A God we have to fear, and the God we can embrace. It needs to be a fair reflection.

To my kids, I am quite heavy on the ‘wrath’ side. Sometimes familiarity robs us of the simple joys found in gratitude and appreciation. I have to work on that. But my scale is not balanced with those outside my family either. To maintain a pleasurable relationship, aren’t we all more inclined to be generous with praise and cautious with rebuke? We see our friends blurt out harsh words, post indecent links, curse their parents, complain about the government - - and we do nothing. We somehow hope our inspirational quotes would strike a chord somewhere. David gave him specific names. Shouldn’t we be direct as well?  Check your scales again. And be fair.

Copy Cat

1 Kings 1:5

“Now Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith, put himself forward and said, ‘I will be king.’ So he got chariots and horses ready, with fifty men to run ahead of him.”

Kids learn by observation and act in imitation. Having two kids gave me the advantage of never having to teach everything to Kjaran. She was able to pick up many concepts by merely growing up with her brother.  Even if her homeschool seatworks are still colors and shapes, she somehow managed to learn ABCs and numbers by just sitting next to Rilian.  We call her the Shadow, sometimes the Fan.  If her kuya takes a book, she asks one for herself. If he turns on the dvd, she brings her small chair there. If I tell Rilian to keep his dinosaurs, she’ll gather ‘em up as well. However, her young age is unable to sift the good from the bad yet. Now, they snarl alike in complaint, both cover their faces when scolded, and they have the same scripts for defiance.

If Adonijah was two years old in this first chapter of Kings, maybe we'd be more forgiving. Born next to Absalom, he may have looked up to him as his model. Both blessed with good features, Adonijah may have wished to have his brother’s charm as well. He could have heard him coveting the throne too and so he owned that ambition himself. But unlike Absalom who went head to head with their father, this younger version chose their youngest brother as competition. But look at his actions: he proclaimed himself as king, got chariots, horses and fifty men to run ahead of him, invited some of David’s best assets on his side, provided a feast for the king’s sons, even used a sacrifice as pretense. Those were Absalom’s signature moves! All he did was rewind then play. But knowing the folly and fall of his highly-esteemed brother, how come he did not change course? Did he expect a different ending? Was he just forgetful? How about blinded?

History repeats itself. God made sure His word will be written down so we could learn from the flaws of those before us. But have we? We all know Eden’s story and yet still we walk towards the forbidden, look at it’s fruit, listen to the lies, but expect a different ending? How about David? We know this man after God’s own heart stained his great name with that one night stand with Bathsheba, culminating to the murder of Uriah.  But did that scandal kept many of our great, godly men from falling? Man’s depravity can be a scary thought. We are in no way able to pull ourselves from the curse of sin. But grace can. God can. The fruit walked towards Joseph, day after day, but he was able to refuse and run from it. Why? Because he has set his heart as one under his Master: owning nothing, deserving nothing, yet receiving much grace.  Unless we see HIS grace in history, we’re still bound to repeat their mistakes. But if allow His full authorship of our stories, HIS-story definitely ends in victory.  Copy that :>

All the Best. Nothing Less.

2 Samuel 24:24

But the king replied to Araunah, ‘No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.’

When we were planning for Rilian’s 5^th birthday, top consideration is the boy’s preference. And so we knew it has to be the beach. When you live in Cebu, you have two options: the long drive or the luxurious reserve. Checking our finances gave us two options too: this celebration or the savings allotted for the sofa. Now you have to understand the homemaker in me. In our six months stay here, we already hosted three times, not to mention we had two cancellations. Thankfully, the house owner lent us three old, red monoblock chairs for the sala. Function, yes. But RED?!! Did I tell you one big wall here is painted green? hahaha :> Ok, so that’s the arte in me. Sofa or Rilian? Is that even a choice? Of course I chose my kid’s delight. Even if it meant back-to-zero on our savings, and be thrifty again :> All the best for our son.  Nothing less.

When God told David to build an altar in the threshing floor of Araunah, he had two options: as king, he could ask someone to make the arrangements for him, or go there himself. Let’s set some background first: In this last chapter, God’s anger burned against David for ordering an account of all his fighting men. It was clearly pride at work. Even his not-always-godly commander Joab saw its vanity.  For why would you need numbers if your heart’s intention is to offer it to the all-knowing God who made it happen? When the report finished, David was conscience-stricken and readily repented. But God’s wrath was already at his door. He was given three choices for punishment: three years of famine, three months of enemy pursuit, or three days of pestilence. The land just had a famine in chapter 21 and he wouldn’t want to fall in the hands of men. That left him with three days of plague. As if referring to David’s headcount instruction from Dan to Beersheba, God’s angel took that route too. And for counting the greatness of his reign, he paid a significant number too. David took responsibility for the plague and so we understand why he chose to go to the threshing floor himself. Arriving there, he was offered an option to have the land for free. But that would make it Araunah’s offering and not his. How could he even call it a sacrifice if it wasn’t from something he valued?  And so he bought the threshing floor for fifty shekels of silver, built an altar in behalf of the land, and the plague stopped. Little did he know that the same land would soon house the temple of God. It had to be costly.

We often quote and sing and pray that we’ll offer our lives to God. In reference to David’s costly sacrifice, and in light of the high price of the Cross, how much really is the worth we say we’re offering? Let’s say, you’re a singer and you want to offer Him your voice. If you don’t push to perfect your skills to its highest potential, then you’re just returning the raw gift entrusted to you. If not even a cent was added to it, to pay for your voice lessons for example, how then can that be costly to you? If all we commit to and involve ourselves in are those within our comfort zones and schedules and budget, where’s the sacrifice there? When we spend our personal devotion in our spare time, when we give to the needy after clearing our books first, when we forgive only when we’re ready and feel-like-it, are we not  offering cheap? We say we love God and that He deserves our all, then, is what we’re doing now towards achieving premium level? Check again. It has to be the best. Nothing less.

Tired and Frozen

2 Samuel 23:10

‘But he stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The Lord brought about a great victory that day. The troops returned to Eleazar, but only to strip the dead.’

Today is Febias entrance exam day. Brings back memories. And yes, I'm one proud alumna. My five year stay inside its premises not only shaped me for ministry, it also strengthened me for life. Classroom instructions, countless readings and chapel services well provided me with biblical inputs and insights, plus of course those competent professors who inspired me with their excellence and experiences.  But what really sets the school apart is the wisdom behind the required dorm residency. It perfectly defines consistency and character. A platform to practice what is preached.  It not only reflects whether lifechange transpired, it also provides the reason why some were next called to great exploits, while others never even made it to finish. Privileged to be a dorm monitor in my time, I witnessed that distinction firsthand. Given the same requirements and responsibilities, and having comparable personal and relational issues, one part of Sharon Hall maintained  time management, self-discipline, consideration for others, and deep devotion to God, while the other part skips library time, crams a lot, delays room cleaning, complains aloud, and oversleeps. Don’t ask me which side I belong. I do have my regrets too, hahaha :>

Just before the closing rites of the book of Samuel, we find a list of David’s mighty men.  Although most were unmentioned in the earlier accounts, they were never forgotten. God saw it fit to honor their fights and faith in the end, specifically after David’s last words, for us to see that his successful journey is not without help. We should never fail to recognize those unsung heroes behind our God-given success. Their faithful prayers, warm encouragements and timely affirmations did win a lot of battles on the side. Shammah protected that field full of lentils, probably for their supplies; Josheb-Basshebeth  took eight hundred in one spear, that’s one load off from David; and Eleazar defied the Philistine ranks, supporting David in his convictions. But what is extraordinary with the Three is that they fought these battles while everybody else was retreating. They stood their ground alone and despite the odds. Eleazar’s hand was mentioned as striking the enemies till his hand froze to the sword. They never gave up and did not let go. Plus their hearts were right with God and He brought about a great victory through them.

Many people wonder why life is unfair and that they seem to be always down here while others are enjoying up there. What they fail to see is what took place behind the curtains while they were just gazing there, forever wondering. I sometimes envy excellent pianists, but maybe if I could adjust my envy to their long hours of practice, alone in a room instead of hanging out with friends, then maybe I’d get somewhere, right?  We wish our names would be famous and be inspiring, but how come we’re first to leave the workplace, absent during trainings, unmindful of our co-workers, and silent with our convictions? God strengthens those that are fully committed to Him. He sets ablaze those that are already fired up for Him. We don’t wait for a win, we fight - - though it's tiring, till we're frozen --  and God will honor us with that win. 

Under and Over

2 Samuel 23:3, 4

The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me, ‘When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth’.

Historical fictions in film or as mini series captures me. My little girl was even named after the actor that played Julius Caesar in the two-season television series Rome :> I guess it’s the student in me that dreamt for books to come alive instead of having to read several chapters for a class that doze you off to sleep. But books have the facts, novels just the drama. The 2007 Tudors was one series where Tris and I would google up info almost after every episode. Henry VIII’s break with the Catholic  church over its refusal to grant divorce from Catherine of Aragon was pivotal and controversial I would want to get my facts straight. Yes, this was the king who declared himself as the king Supreme Governor of the Church of England. He’s the absolute power. Lord over all, answerable to none.

Israel’s greatest king lived and believed otherwise. Being the anointed ruler over the people gives the premise that he is under the One who declared the appointment. Responsibility and accountability clothes his reign. That is why even as king, he takes joy (and time) being Israel’s ‘singer of songs’. He may have a truckload of administrative issues to attend to, a full week with six OTs maybe, but he never forgets the Lord’s day. Inside the temple, he is God's subject, like everyone else. David acknowledges his every word and decree and judgment as from God, and relays it to the people through the Spirit. He is not guided by whims or preferences, but in complete reverence to God, he rules in righteousness. Under God, Over the people. Choosing these as his last words meant it was of utmost importance. His will is for his successors to uphold theocracy. His picture of a great kingdom is not that of gems or fine garments or cedar walls, for such would only elevate a handful of royalties, not to mention its vulnerability to thieves and moths. His vision is ‘the light of the morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth’, for such reflects the work of our One Creator, giving life and abundance to all.

All of us in one way or another have been given a trust. A parent, teacher, supervisor, group leader, older brother, or just assigned for the day - - we are called not just to lead but to stand in the gap. We are channels through which His standards and character flows. Prerequisite to success is being connected to the God as the Source. Responsibility without accountability will drain you up. We are limited beings. Without being fed, how do you expect to meet another’s hunger? No expert knows everything. Guess who holds all wisdom unfathomable?  Now accountability without responsibility is a contradiction of terms. Should we praise but not share? Having known and received His riches and grace, should we bury it under ground and expect pleasure from God? Should we give the reason we’re not gifted enough? Were 5, 2 and 1 the point of the parable? David started as a shepherd boy. We start where we are. Under and Over. Together, and in that order.

Age Does Matter

2 Samuel 21:17

“But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, ‘Never again will you go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel will not be extinguished.”

I have been a Vacation Bible School teacher since first year high.  Back then and even many summers after, I’ve always been the fun, energetic, all-out ate. From preparing visual aids to doing skits, sharing bible stories to leading songs and games, plus a lot other assignments here and there, I can fairly say I did well and still had a lot of energy to spare. Five weeks ago was reality check. Eighteen preschool kids in a well-provided, very conducive room, with two teeners and the kids’ yaya’s as extra hands, (being a mother of two was a felt-advantage too) - - ‘This is easy’ said the confident me. Yes I did pray of course. So that’s faith plus experience plus steadiness, not to mention preparedness and mastery - - and I’m all set. After three long hours of that first day, I slouched alone in a corner, drained, disappointed and disillusioned. And it hit me: I forgot to factor in AGE!!  Twenty plus years difference is that big difference.

I never knew David had another fight with a giant after Goliath. But the closing verses of chapter 21 had an account. Here we see the still-brave and bold hero-turned-king leading his men to another fight with the Philistines.  Seeing Ishbi-Benob from afar brought back memories of his feat with Goliath. Both were from Gath, possibly from the same Rapha line, so maybe he’s seeing a resemblance other than the height. Then there’s the heavily-weighed armor, although this newbie’s spear was just half as that of their old champ. David's confidence on being a seasoned warrior, possibly designing a tried-and-tested strategy himself, and with God on their side, ‘This is easy’ - -could be his thoughts. But in the middle of the game, he became exhausted.  The freshie-giant saw an opening and with his new sword on hand, he rushed towards his sought-after trophy. Praise God Abishai was there as his extra hand, rescuing him from sure death. David’s men swore to him never to go out in battle again. His place is to guide them now, in wisdom and as inspiration. Verse twenty-two proves he accepted that lot, meaning his age too. And so we hear the names Sibecai, Elhanan, Jonathan, and Abishai - - four Israel’s giant-killers, all David’s men. One old hero producing four.  Age does really matter. It can even multiply!

I’m in the process of admitting thirty-six belongs to the old age stratum. I’m sure those forty-ish peeps wouldn’t agree either. But the grooves are at the tip, laps have more catch breaths, I’m minding my health, and I don’t oversleep. More are calling me Tita now instead of Ate - - grrrr! hahaha :>  I know I’m getting there, but not yet 'there'. A few more steps maybe, but a lot to praise and pray for:  Time to praise God I had years on the battlefront, seeing His deliverance before my very eyes; time to still enjoy the present and fight the remaining wars set for me; and, time to pray and discover whom God will send my way to pass on the legacy I myself have received. God has made everything beautiful in its time. We remember Him in our youth, we rest in Him as we grow old, we return to Him at the end of it all. His grace abounds at all age, and where He is, praise is present!

Seriously!

2 Samuel 21:1

“During the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years; so David sought the face of the Lord. The Lord said, it is on account of Saul and his blood-stained house; it is because he put the Gibeonites to death.”

Young kids are the most forgiving and forgetful people. Not willfully of course. They just don’t have the concept of grudges or self-pity or bitterness, yet. Give them a hard spank, a loud shout, a time alone in the corner, a push there, a pull here, and yes,  give them a few minutes cry and a cold drink maybe, and they’ll be back in  your arms, puffed eyes and all. A debrief seems futile and frustrating to parents for it’s more like talking to a wall. Same thing happens if you give them instructions. It’s why some call their mothers tape recorders (ohh, there goes my age, haha!). Give those tots five minutes to keep their toys and guess what? You will have to repeat your instructions when you get back. You wonder if they’re deaf, or really busy (at age 5?), or just heartless. I have to confess my moods sometimes dictate the next strip. But most parents wouldn’t bend, especially discerning some power challenge. If it will take a full hour for our kids to comply, we’ll be there to make sure they do. They need to see we’re serious in this parenting business.

The Israelites are known to forgetful people. Forty years in the desert is suffice to prove that point. They have challenged God here and there, but His rule is immoveable. Scrutinize it on every side and it’s unquestionably righteous. His will reflects His perfect character and so He cannot by all means bend it for our pleading. We cannot plead and cry for mercy when justice awaits outside our doors. Yes, He will continue to love the sinner, but the sin has to be dealt with. It took a wondrous cross to bridge that gap. Praise God! In this chapter we see how Israel suffered three years of famine because of the injustice done to the Gibeonites. It was way back during the time of Joshua that Israel’s leaders made an oath to spare their lives in exchange for their service as woodcutters and water carriers.  But in the time of Saul, for some reason, he put them to death. (This king did a lot of unreasonable killings - - like how he emptied that whole town of priests! :<) David may have never heard their case before, or he could have but thought less for it was not his doing. But justice has to be served. The Gibeonites themselves took it aside, kept their hurts inside, and maybe just gave it all to God. But quiet, long years doesn’t mean God kept a box of unsolved cases on file. It was always on His hand. It was best scheduled for this time.

It took David three years to notice God was behind the famine. How could he miss that? How could we care less and not mind all the circumstances around us? Do we really think life’s events are randomly given, or without purpose and not to be taken seriously? How about the commitments we uttered years ago, the marriage vow especially -- do we really think we can just undo it and pray for God to understand?  Did our parents dedicate us for something, or maybe our past leaders gave an oath of promise in behalf of the land? Ignorance is never an excuse. God is faithful in giving us answers the moment we seek. There is wisdom why God allowed history to be written down. It will do us well to start a recall of our past promises and be responsible for it. It did hurt Rizpah, Saul’s concubine, to see his sons exposed on the hill to appease God’s justice. But she willingly submitted.  It did hurt God to forsake His only Son as penalty for our sins. But He gave Him up so willingly. God takes His rule seriously. It’s high time we do.

Just One

2 Samuel 20:6

David said to Abishai, ‘Now Sheba son of Bicri will do to us more harm than Absalom did. Take your master’s men and pursue him, or he will find fortified cities and escape from us.’

When Rilian happened (haha!), everything changed. Long hours of sleep became history, formal attires and gatherings were taken aside, going out with friends was a luxury, and movie night outs were just out of the question. Zero. Poof. Gone. The replacements? Sleep equals tricks and schemes to get him to sleep so we could have one; fashion meant bringing that baby bag, wearing his carrier, and tying my hair up because there’s no time to blowdry; going out was always a major production, sometimes a disaster, or worse, postponed indefinitely; and movies were in dvds, usually a choice between Barney and Backyardigans. Amazing how that little tot turned our world around. But it’s not all complaints. The joys of parenthood exceeded the discomforts. His smiles were picture perfect, watching him sleep was understanding peace, and every moment, priceless! Yes, just one little boy and we’re literally upside down. Last week marked our fifth year with him… and the saga continues :>

The whole chapter Twenty vibrates the impact of one on the lives of many. One troublemaking Sheba causing dissension to the kingdom; David favoring one tribe making the rest desert him again; Joab’s personal vendetta in the midst of national security; one wise woman interceding for the whole city of Abel; and the cut-off head of Amasa to disperse the entire army. It’s rare to find so many people play lead in one chapter alone. Each has his own cause, and each caused an effect.  Some opened danger, some stirred anger. A lady brought rest, while many found rest. Yes, these were mostly individuals yet they had the power to save or scatter a kingdom. Who says majority wins? They'll say, "I'm one. But I can take the majority!'

Let us be mindful that our every action produces a ripple effect. ‘For just as through the disobedience of one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one Man the many will be righteous’ (Rom.5.19). It offers us choice. One word of praise or one that causes pain? One sin that brings in shame or one controlled self for our family’s and His’ name? One life lived for God and for others, or one stuck in solitude and selfish gains? What would it be? “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Love Lolo, Love Lola

2 Samuel 19:33

‘The king said to Barzillai, ‘Cross over with me and stay with me in Jerusalem, and I will provide for you.’

Today I thank God I had years spent with my Lolo and Lolas. Almost half of my life, we stayed in my mom’s ancestral home (my family’s still there), while summertimes were always long trips to my dad’s side. Both my parents were firstborn (my dad, in gender at least) and so I’m part of the novelty set: favored and protected, haha :> That also meant I was old enough by the time they’re nearing their deathbeds. Their old age was marked with lessened hearing, weak bodies, and coughs here and there. Doubly difficult because my lolo had cancer, my lola’s diabetic, and my other lola had lung problems. But my memories with them were not all sickness and pain. I’d never forget how my lolo’s OC-ness and diligence made him painstakingly disassemble an entire fan just to clean it. Just last Holy Week, when my neighbor gave me a rice cake, I felt I went back to tasting my lola’s homemade puto and bibingka. And I’d forever cherish the moments I sat down and listened to my lola sharing her lovestory and giving me tips as well.  Sometimes I wish I had more time with them. I could have had better stories to share.

Barzillai. I have never heard his name in all my years in Sunday School and even inside Febias. I twice committed to read the Bible from cover to cover and I have no memory of him. Obviously, I missed his twelve-verse story. But David did not forget his deeds. Barzillai was the eighty year old, wealthy man, who along with Shobi and Makir (not popular to us either) sent beddings, bowls and bread to David in the desert. Ain’t grandparents’ welcome greeting always, ‘Have you eaten?’ Our elders have always been on the giving side. Always seeking our comfort, always mindful of our cares. He was there to send David off on his way back to Jerusalem. Barzillai had the excuse of age and physical discomforts not to be there. But it was his joy. Old age shouldn’t keep people from taking part in important events. I’m sure it warmed David’s heart to see him there sharing his victory, remembering he was also present during his struggles.  In gratitude, when God favored David to have his throne back, he invited him to go up and stay with him, so he could provide for him. He was not even his relative! And he’s wealthy enough to get himself a personal nurse. What benefit could a king get from an old man anyway? But God taught David to show respect to the elderly in reverence to the Lord. To rise in the presence of the aged as tradition obliged the Hebrews. And although his offer was not accepted, he granted Barzillai’s wishes to take his servant instead while he return to his hometown. Shouldn't we also listen to what our seniors want and honor their wills? The account ended with the king kissing him and giving him his blessing, as honor befits every old man.

It’s not yet grandparents day, but in light of Mother’s Day, especially now that my generation more likely have senior citizen mothers, I do hope we pay them honor and respect, not just due them, but in obedience to God’s will. Leviticus19:32 strongly says, ‘Show respect to the aged; honor the presence of an elder; fear your God. I am God.’ God signed it Himself! He commands it. As children, it is our responsibility. Not the church, not some institutions, not our relatives. We are called to care for our parents in their old age. How can we expect other people to treat them with dignity when we, their own children, wouldn’t sacrifice some inconveniences for them? And who says it is all burdensome? Ain’t older wine better and the forest trees more majestic? They have so much wisdom to share and lots of love to give. Don’t worry, our time will come soon and when the tides' on us, wouldn’t we want to be treated likewise?

Payback Time

2 Samuel 19:22, 23

“David replied, ‘What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? This day you have become my adversaries! Should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Do I not know that today I am king over Israel?’ So the king said to Shimei, ‘You shall not die.’ And the king promised him on oath.”

In her tender age of two, my little girl knows she can’t win against his big brother. She quietly resigns when he’s first to take hold of a toy, moves aside when he’s first to choose a disc to play, and looks from behind when he’s first to ask for the iPad. There’s no way she could outran and overpower him. But she can outsmart him. Like a predator on the lookout, she waits for her brother to let down his defense  -- his pee break for example -- and before he can even realize it, she already had the grab. Kjaran even wakes up earlier than everyone or hurriedly finishes her meal to have that priority number. She’s so funny, witty and amusing. I just don’t know if it’s because of her genes or gender, haha :>

From approximately 976 to 972 BC, David and his men were outcasts because of Absalom. I could say it’s the second lowest point of David’s life, the first being his sins to Uriah. Physically, he had zero comforts and the psalm even mentioned him gravely ill in bed, and emotionally, his son betrayed him and soon died in the hands of his trusted men. But he took it all in. As we all would when our past guilts haunt us. He fully surrendered to God’s justice. But not the Zeruiah’s. In their hearts, Joab and Abishai kept a list of the insults they heard and the inconvenience they suffered from their enemies. And so when they had the chance, even if it’s against the king’s wishes, they took Absalom’s life.  When they had their power back, at the sight of the Shimei, regardless if his posture was repentance, death was their verdict. David rebuked them for these. First, God has already avenged their cause. Shall they repay vindication with further vengeance? It’s but an insult to God’s finished work. Second, God has been merciful in forgiving David of his sins.  Shall he not be first to forgive others? Third, God has granted them favor and be restored back to the people. Shall they instill terror to the welcome party? These brothers were rebuked for thinking that reinstatement meant power back for pay back.  David wanted them to see that they’re merely favored to be back to give back.

When I was growing up, I hated my dad and my uncles for lording over the family’s television set, watching their favorite basketball or boxing matches. I vowed to myself that when I’m old enough, I’d buy my own set, lock it in my room and have the time of my life. It never happened, haha! But the attitude lingered. Bitter brags of ‘Wait til I’m better, or prettier, or smarter than all of you’ were quite beyond a handful. Praise God He knows better than answer those vain hopes. His purpose in lifting us from people’s insults and deep pits is not so we could get even or push them down. Isn’t freedom and favor enough? Isn’t gratitude the best payback?

Ready for the Bad News?

2 Samuel 18:33

“The king was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept. As he went, he said, ‘O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you – o Absalom, my son, my son!’

  

Being a mom changed my movie-life. First, I never thought I’d come to a point of choosing a film on the basis PGs and GPs instead of plots and actors. Second, I can’t believe our discussion last night about the third installment of Transformers ended with Tris and I alternating roles as fanatics and babysitters. And third, I have never been this overly affected by family-themed flicks as I am now. I can understand the pain if we’re talking about my kids getting hurt. I just never thought I’d cry so hard for another’s.  Somehow, I think, parents feel for each other. 

And I feel for David here. Losing a son is heartbreaking. Weeping is an understatement. I dare not imagine it soon happening to me. It will surely crush my heart. ‘No parent should have to bury their child’, said Theoden in LOTR’s The Two Towers. But it wasn’t David’s first time. His first son to Bathsheba died at day seven. But he did not weep for him AFTER.  The account said upon realizing the child is dead, he got up, washed himself, worshiped the Lord, then comforted his wife. We do not find it here. The only similarity with the two deaths is that both sons were born out of adultery, and both died as consequence to those sins. The former because of David’s deliberate disobedience, the latter indirectly because he failed in disciplining Absalom. What was missing? The crucial marker is what he was doing BEFORE his son’s death. In chapter 12, David was in all humility bowed down at the Lord’s feet, admitting his sins, knowing God’s justice but still begging for mercy. Chapter 18 gives us no account of him praying at all. Because if he did, even if it wasn’t written down, he would have acknowledged that it was God’s justice at work. Then we would see him make an altar to worship, and Joab would not need to rebuke him for not encouraging his men.

One online dictionary defined acceptance as a person’s agreement to experience a situation, to follow a process or condition, without attempting to protest or resist. It doesn’t mean we are forgetting the loss or we won’t feel grief, but is about understanding what has happened as God’s call. Prerequisite to acceptance is seeing who He is and knowing our place. He is sovereign God and we are but sinners, deserving death but privileged with grace. Bad news is actually irrelevant when we come face to face with God. Everything serves His good purposes. That’s what prepared David’s heart in accepting his baby’s death. Worship is what will free us from fear of what’s ahead, even enable us to encourage another amidst personal pains. Yes will still cry, but not as one without hope. Not like those without God. Preparedness or panic? Just like prevention or cure, it can spell a lot of difference.

Because I Said So

2 Samuel 16:23

“Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice.”

Parenting is power. We dictate house rules, we can withhold privileges, we can command our kids to our will, and yes, we can even make mistakes and pretend it never happened. One time, my boy challenged me with a ‘why’ when I told him to keep his toys. My first-in-mind, unguarded, unedited reply was ‘Because I said so!’ I did bit my tongue after. But the proud me was unwilling then to admit I was wrong. Our kids should obey us not because we said so. It should be because God said so. We have to make sure our house rules are based on His rules of order, responsibility and diligence. Not because we hold the authority as parents. We are merely God’s stewards of our children. We don’t dictate. We implement. That makes us under His rule as well.

Ahithophel was the highly regarded adviser of King David. Although his name means brother of foolishness, his wisdom was considered equal to God’s word. Absalom made sure he was on his side when he conspired against his father. David could have been threatened as well for he prayed specifically and even sent Hushai to frustrate Ahithophel’s advice. Some believed this man was Bathsheba’s grandfather taking advantage of the situation for his personal vendetta against David. It could also be that his eye is on the throne thus his volunteering to lead twelve thousand men to strike David himself. If he could bring the mighty David down, he sure can overthrow the son. But whether if it was for his reputation or his ambition, he was obviously never pro-God. For the sake of power, his ill-advise to Absalom were adultery and murder. We may call him a strategist or a politician, but please, never wise. He could not even manage his own disappointment when Absalom called for Hushai’s second opinion and voted for it. Either he knew defeat was coming, or he just can’t bear this disgrace to his pride. It was not wisdom that hanged him in his hometown. His foolishness deceived him to thinking his wit can manipulate these kings. He overlooked the fact that David and Absalom and himself were just stewards - - all under the rule of One.

In our inexperience and limitations, we oftentimes seek experts to help us get across. We attend seminars and read their books to make us thoroughly informed and well rounded. We bank on their success stories and the testimonies of their followers. We see them as authority figures. But hopefully not the final authority. We have to be like the Bereans who took time (everyday!) to find out for themselves if all that the apostle Paul was preaching were true. They’d only follow him if he truly follows Christ. Professionals, professors, pastors, even parents are all stewards of His wisdom. We don’t say yes to them because ‘they said so’. We seek their advice and obey their disciplines only when God said so. It is no wonder why God commanded the ancient Jews to diligently teach His word to the children. It is a prerequisite to all practice, our reference in all reviews, and a standard for us stewards. Our end goal is not for them to obey us, but to obey Christ. Because He said so!

*P.S. 

Don’t take my word for it, check the Word yourself :>