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David and Goliath – 1 Samuel 16:7 “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 

It was a day like most others, filled with meal preparations, cleaning up messes, playing, refereeing battles, and dealing with the emotions of children. On this day, however, my patience had run thin and I was yelling at our children. Later that day, I began to doubt my abilities to be the perfect, super parent that our society expected. I wasn’t sure my heart’s desire to love our children was enough. Upon further reflection and prayer, I felt hope in the fact that, despite my inadequacies and imperfections, God chose me and my heart specifically to love and care for my two children. 

Samuel was searching for Israel’s new king. He met with Jesse’s family and began the interview process. Jesse presented his tall and handsome son, Abinadab, thinking he looked the part of a king. But God told Samuel to look for someone with the right heart. Jesse then presented six other sons, but Samuel asked, “Are these allyour sons?” Jesse then presented his youngest son, David. By outward appearances, this shepherd boy was not considered a good fit for king. But Samuel took one look at him and knew that God had big plans for him. Yes, David would make mistakes, but he had the heart and skill to face great adversaries and lead God’s people. Whether we’re facing giants or tending to children, Jesus has come to bring us love and hope in all our daily tasks.  

Do you sense that love and hope, knowing that God has qualified you for a task despite your imperfections?

 

*stay tuned for tomorrow’s advent reflection* 

(advent reflections have been prepared by a variety of writers from Peace Church)