First Reading:  Samuel 7: 1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

Divine Favor

These verses from 2 Samuel summarize the Davidic covenant. Unlike the other great covenants (Noah, Abraham, and Moses), YHWH did not speak directly to David, but made his covenant through the prophet Nathan. Thus, God not only raised up David's status, he also elevated the place of the prophet in salvation history. Prophets now revealed God's will to Israel's and Judah's royalty (whether they wanted to listen or not).

The narrative turned on the phrase "house." David wanted to build YHWH a house (i.e., Temple) in which to dwell. But, through the prophet, God proposed to build David a "royal house" (i.e., a dynasty) that would forever enjoy divine favor. Notice YHWH asserts his dominance and initiative as he speaks. He took David from the fields and made him king. He would care for him in life and give him honor after death. This was not a reward for David's loyalty but a vehicle for the divine will. Through the covenant he offered David, God revealed his intentions and his nature. He was a loving, even doting God.

As Christians, we see the fulfillment of God's covenant with David in Jesus. Why? Because he was a "Son of David" not only in his lineage, but in his revelation. The mission and ministry of Jesus revealed God as that loving deity David enjoyed. But, now, we enjoy the loving initiative David enjoyed so long ago.

God declared David "his son." Through Christ, we are sons and daughters of God. How have you enjoyed God's favor this week? How can you show others they, too, are children of the Almighty?