“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!
wow! very nice to hit the right words!
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