2 Samuel 16:10
But the king said, ‘What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David’, who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’
Years back, there was nothing in my veins that ticks for war movies. I remember frowning when my uncles brought home ‘Platoon’ and ‘Born on the 4th of July’ for our betamax afternoons. But marriage changes people, haha :> When Tris introduced me to ‘Band of Brothers -HBO Series’, I was hooked. You wouldn’t believe I’m even reading the book! Their disciplines, camaraderie and unquestioning compliance are exemplary. They need not hear from the top why they have to hold a line, or attack this post, or make a retreat. They need not see if other battalions are equally dedicated or soon failing or still alive. Each soldier just believed his part contributes to the whole picture. And it did. I wish they could all still hear our thanks for what they did.
David’s barefooted march from the palace to the desert was a glimpse of Jesus’ way to the Cross. They were both betrayed by a loved-one, people were weeping as they passed by, those near them tried to act in their defense, and insults were publicly hurled at them. But our kings here knew better than repay evil for evil. Both acknowledged it was the will of God for them to take this cup. They trusted His good heart and His sovereign plan. And so they rebuked those standing in the way of what they have to go through. Meekness clothed them beautifully. Like jars of clay who do not lose heart because of the treasure they hold within. They continued along the road, despite the showers of dirt, and soon arrived at their destination. Exhausted? yes. Victorious? Yes!
Joseph (the Dreamer) line was unforgettable, ‘You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’ Our shortsightedness and impatience as a people moves us to readily put up defense and hurl back insults to all unfair treatments we receive. Even those arrows directed elsewhere we accuse of hitting us. Years back in CAT, we heard the words ‘Obey first before you complain’. How about 'Confirm first before we complain'? Can’t we just hold that temper a bit and give room for context? And even if we’re withheld the big picture of why He’s allowing our sufferings, does that mean there’s none? Joseph kept his integrity, David his calm, Jesus His righteousness. They honored God in their afflictions. They hoped in Him 'til the end of the line. The big picture they held fast in their hearts. Exhausting, yes? But we can be victorious. In Christ, it's a big yes!