Who Gets the Glory

Matthew 20     Psalm 15     1 Samuel 17

As Jesus continues to draw images of what the kingdom of heaven will be like in ways the common people can understand he tells a story about laborers that agree to a wage but the ask those hired after them to trust he will pay want he thinks is right. Too often we are more worried about our position, reputation and image than how we reflect Jesus to the world. Jesus wanted his disciples to remember that our work as the men and women created in the image of God was to care for the place that God had created for us. That includes are relationships with others.

As he travels with the apostles, he tells them that where they are headed is dangerous but in reality, is telling them that is part of God’s plan. I find it interesting in Matthew that following this story and Jesus warning the next story is about being put in positions of power. This time the request comes from a mother. The father will decide where we belong in the kingdom of heaven, but Jesus warns that they will drink from the same cup he does. It is never about who is great on earth but who has been a servant to the good of their part of the community. The son’s life would be given as the cost for many.

Once again, the story turns to two that have great need, people they have an opportunity to serve, and they want to push them away. Jesus calls them to him and meets their need.

The song is such a simple yet profound reminder that those that want to dwell with God will be those that walk with integrity and work in the ways of God. They treat others with dignity and defends their friend’s integrity. They treat others right as God would.

In 1 Samuel we read one of those well-known childhood Bible stories, but we often miss the keys to the story. Saul is with the army with a chance to lead, he is a powerful warrior, but he is afraid. For more than month they are taunted by Goliath, the Philistines champion. They follow their leader in response and are afraid. David comes from his father to check on his brothers and answers the challenge and ask why they are failing to go up against him since their God has always made them successful when they put their trust in him. While his older brothers are angry because they are among the fearful Saul calls for him because he sees no other warrior willing to step up, including himself.

As David prepares to take up the challenge, he prepares by insisting that his weapons be ones that he has used, and he is comfortable. It is not about have the biggest or the best but tools that fit the user. As he approaches the enemy he is mocked and laughed at. Don’t miss the final injury is inflicted by the loser’s own weapon. That weapon becomes a hidden symbol or the power of God. Hidden because it wasn’t the sword but God’s power that brought the victory.