Green-Eyed Monsters

When David and Saul approached (on David’s return after slaying the Philistine), women came out from each of the cities of Israel to meet King Saul, singing and dancing, with tambourines, joyful songs, and sistrums. The women played and sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” Saul was very angry and resentful of the song, for he thought: “They give David ten thousands, but only thousands to me. All that remains for him is the kingship.” And from that day on, Saul was jealous of David. 

Saul discussed his intention of killing David with his son Jonathan and with all his servants. But Saul’s son Jonathan, who was very fond of David, told him: “My father Saul is trying to kill you. Therefore, please be on your guard tomorrow morning; get out of sight and remain in hiding. I, however, will go out and stand beside my father in the countryside where you are, and will speak to him about you. If I learn anything, I will let you know.” 

The green-eyed monster reared its ugly head in this reading from 1 Samuel (18:6-9; 19:1-7).  Jealousy is a monster that attacks people, and most of us have been bitten by this beast more than a few times.

David just slew Goliath and saved his people from the Philistines.   He deserved the credit, but the King was jealous of the attention David received.  As a result, King Saul wanted David killed.

We aren’t kings capable of dispatching those we don’t like or of whom we are jealous.  Nevertheless, we can “kill” with rumor and innuendo using social media or the power of our unbridled mouths saying monstrous things.  We cannot slay thousands or ten thousands, but we can “slay” those we resent with words.  Let's put down our slingshots.

Fortunately, many of us have our Jonathans who are fond of us and warn us of the jealous ones.  Unfortunately, most of us are on our own having to deal with the monsters that at times are us.

Deacon David Pierce