All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. 2 In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’” 3 When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel.
This Sunday is the last of the Church year and is dedicated to Christ as universal king. Of course, during Advent, which starts next week, we will look at the circumstances of Jesus’ birth. Born in poverty, the gospels are clear that he still descended from the greatest of all Israel’s kings, David. It is therefore fitting that, for the celebration of Christ’s kingship, the first reading should concern his illustrious human ancestor.
The Old Testament reading describes the anointing of David as King of Israel, from whose line the Messiah was prophesied to come. David is chosen because of his military leadership, since he successfully led the hosts of Israel into battle. But note that God’s prophecy about David, in verse two, shows no interest in that fact. The Lord tells him simply to be Israel’s shepherd and care for his people. Significantly, God does not use the term “king” when referring to David. Furthermore, he makes clear that, while he recognizes David as their earthly ruler, Israel remains not David’s people but his own.
Indeed, as we shall see at Christmas, when the Messiah, the true king, comes, it will be, not as a triumphant warrior (which was the Messiah most people expected) but as the Prince of Peace. He will be the Good Shepherd, who will give his life to save his sheep. David is a model for Christ but a very flawed one, preoccupied with war and with enjoying the fruits of his position. Christ shows us the true meaning of kingship.
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