The Bitesized Bible
2 Samuel
20 December 2020
This abstract of 2 Samuel takes us to an image that might appear as an unlikely representation for the narrative of King David. Nonetheless, it is an image I painted as a signpost to hope in Jesus Christ.
Samuel reflects David as living halfway between the time of Abraham, God’s original covenant recipient, and Jesus, the embodiment of that covenant – revealed upon the cross.
2 Samuel chapter 7 unveils God’s plan for salvation through the house of David – giving foundation for David to be remembered as ‘a man after God's own heart’, and Jesus as God’s own heart beating amongst Humanity. To this end, 2 Samuel 7:14 declares God’s promise of a Messiah: "I will be his father, and he will be my son." As a new testament link, Hebrews 1:5, attributes this verse to Jesus, not to David's successor, King Solomon, because Solomon sinned. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, became the Messiah, the King of Kings.
Regardless of how we interpret 2 Samuel, I think all of us might agree that the House of David brought Halcyon days to the people of Israel, a time of hope in the wintertime that had befallen God’s people. David was the pivotal figure in how humanity would be able to know God. Moving from the impersonal and fearsome mountain top place of God’s residence, to the loving and warm Grace that would abound via the promised Messiah – the Anointed One!
In view of this, perhaps we can look at David in a way other than the giantkiller, the boy shepherd with a slingshot and a good aim. Perhaps, we can look at David as symbolized by a Kingfisher? The bird that - according to some areas of Hebrew mythology – was first out of the Ark. The Kingfisher, in its Greek form, is known as the Halcyon bird. Bringing calm to stormy waters so that it could bring forth new life. Hence the phrase: Halcyon Days. 2 Samuel helps us to view the narrative of David as the provider of a calm place ready to bring new ways. The clue comes at the end of the narrative when David purchases Arunah’s threshing floor. This is a whole new ball game in understanding the Old Testament; one I invite you to read and consider. Finally, look at the image and spot the Kingfisher. Ponder a while and then ask yourself this: Who emerged from the House of David to calm the storm so that new life could happen?
Stay safe, stay calm, stay blessed.
© 2020 David Hollingsworth
Last Updated: 21 December 2020
