The anointing of David is another great moment in the history of Israel which the Lenten first readings recall. David is the youngest of eight sons, a youth who is God’s choice to be king, but not the prophet Samuel’s first pick. The outpouring of the Spirit upon David manifests God’s blessings on him.
God chooses a king.
God said to Samuel: “I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have chosen my king from among his sons.” As Jesse and his sons came to the sacrifice, Samuel looked at Eliab and thought, “Surely this is God’s anointed.” But God said to Samuel: “Do not judge from his appearance or from his lofty stature, because I have rejected him. Not as humans see does God see, because humans see the appearance but God looks into the heart.” Jesse presented seven sons before Samuel, but Samuel said, “God has not chosen any of these.”
Then Samuel asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” Jesse replied, “There is still the youngest, who is tending the sheep.” Samuel said to Jesse, “Send for him; we will not begin the banquet until he arrives.” Jesse sent and had him come. The young man was ruddy and handsome with beautiful eyes. God said, “Arise and anoint him, for this is the one.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed David in the presence of his brothers. The Spirit of God grew strong in David from that day on.
1 Samuel 16.1, 6-7, 10-13
- Whose appearances have fooled you into misreading their capabilities?
- In what young people do you see promise? What does the Spirit speak in them?
- Who in your community of faith or service do you want to anoint for leadership?