Famous Last Words

I have a friend who waited by the bedside of his wise old father, hoping to hear his meaningful last words. When they finally came, they were more on the practical side. “Change the filters on the furnace,” the old man whispered. David’s last words to Solomon deal with some practical matters (and indulge in settling some old scores), but also are inspiring: Solomon must “walk faithfully before God with all your heart and soul.” This is the key to keeping a descendant of David on the throne. The history of Israel’s divided kingdom, the exile of the people, and the destruction of Jerusalem by its enemies attest to the faithlessness of some of David’s descendants. And yet, centuries later in Bethlehem, David’s city under Roman occupation, a “Son of David” is born who will change the concept of kingship forever.
 
Jesus is called “king” by the magi, and then by King Herod, who tries to destroy this child he fears will be his usurper. Jesus is called “king” by Pilate at the crucifixion. But some followers who want to make him king in the usual sense were disappointed. The story of Jesus and the woman at the well (John 4:7-26) indicates how Jesus reigns:  he will topple “the powerful from their thrones and lift up the lowly” (Luke 1:52). Jesus does unheard of things in John 4. He speaks to a Samaritan (despised by his people) who is a woman (religiously taboo for a man to do this), and furthermore she is a person of dubious reputation. But he knows all about her and he listens to her. He asks for a drink and then offers her “living water.” What kind of king would have such a give and take? What kind of king listens?

QUESTIONS FROM THE FIELD

FAMILY FIELD TALK