Today’s author is Prince of Peace member, Steve Sveom.
2 Samuel 12:1-9 reveals the prophet Nathan speaking truth to the powerful king David. Nathan tells a story about a poor man who loved and tenderly cared for a lamb only to have a rich and powerful neighbor seize the lamb to be the main course for a meal with a guest. David is drawn into the story and denounces the rich man for his greed and abuse toward his impoverished and humble neighbor. As David expresses his anger and readiness to punish the man’s criminal behavior, suddenly Nathan turns the table on David to declare “You are the man.” David had coveted, raped (as Pastor Sylvester noted) and ultimately had arranged for a murder.
Nathan risked his life in confronting David who had the power and authority to order Nathan’s death if he chose. In our society, we may wonder how speaking truth to power can be accomplished. Some write editorials or exposés. Others engage in marches, boycotts and demonstrations. Others have been whistleblowers. Even more amazing and rare are those who have a position and access to directly confront those in power. In the extreme, some use violence. Our tendency is more likely complaining without doing anything.
In our diverse nation, we are meant to be held together by shared principles not a person. Christians living in this context are called to let our faith inform our life…to let the basics of our belief lead our pursuits. We are not meant to focus on wealth at the expense of justice; on power at the expense of integrity. We are not meant to focus on control at the expense of mercy or love. We may not always agree on a course of action…but our motives should always be grounded in love for God and for our neighbor. This is the truth we are meant to pursue regardless of what power may say.
God of truth, of honesty, of justice, mercy and love. Give us wisdom to seek the well-being of the world you have given us. Amen.