1 sam 5 - 14

Today's readings included an account of the philistines capturing the ark and could not keep it because the presence of God was heavy upon them. They sent it back, with very interesting pieces of offerings, golden rats and tumors? It is interesting to note that the true presence of God cannot be 'captured', it is for a people who belongs to Him and who seeks after Him.

The next account that took place was Samuel judging Israel and when he was growing old his sons did not walk rightly, and the people wanted a king. What caught me was Samuel's ineffectiveness in raising his children. Yes he was a super awesome righteous judge and all that jazz but his sons, took bribes and perverted justice, among other things. It reminded me of the previous priest, Eli, and how he too, failed to raise his songs rightly. I could say that Eli's sons were a lil worse, sleeping with the women outside the tabernacle and not performing their ceremonial duties rightly but the message is the same, How can these awesome men of God fail in terms of raising up their children? And Samuel, who grew up with Eli and turned out good, why didn't he learn from Eli's mistakes? Too many pastor's kids end up rebellious and we know that too well. Is this what ministry is about? I'm not saying ALL pastors kids end up bad, some do follow right paths. But it's sad seeing the opposite happen for some. Maybe their parents have missed the point of serving?

Israel wanting a king could be acceptable to many of us. I mean, who would NOT want a visible leader over us? I mean yes God was their king, but it was mention in those days 'revelation' and 'visitations' from God were scarce, so the people rightly wanted a king, and God gave them one. 'Though I think He was pretty annoyed, like, hey I'm supposed to be your King', and He clearly outlined to the israelites the implications of having a king over them. I guess I could say that prior to this Israel was under a theocratic rule, now it was to change for centuries to come. King Saul was an interesting character, the most handsome, tallest, well built dude and yet could say a lil weak on the inside (hiding behind the equipment when he was announced king). he was like looking for lost donkeys before he was anointed king. yeah. but he stepped up to the plate and won some impressive victories, though i still like his son jonathan better :) the account of him and his armorbearer creating havoc at the philistine camp was classic :) *smacks those who were hiding in holes and caves*