|
The men who gave King Saul a decent burial.
by Jasti Victor The First & Second Books of Samuel - The men who gave Saul a decent burial. This story is based on the last chapter in The First Book of Samuel and from verses four to seven in the second Chapter from The Second Book of Samuel. The Bible is made up of people with names, great ones, like Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Samuel and Daniel; and interspersed are people with no names. These nameless played an essential role in the Bible; roles which brought a more defined and deeper understanding of the Bible. As we spend time reading and meditating, let us also pray for the countless, nameless, who translate the Bible, spread the Word of God, go to interior and inaccessible regions to reach those who never had the opportunity to listen or read. Jabeshgilead was besieged by Nahash, the ammonite and when asked to make peace, said that he will make peace at a price, by gouging out the right eyes of all men. The elders asked for seven days time. In the mean time they secretly requested for help from all the coasts of Israel, but it was only Saul, who was at Gibeah who responded immediately. Mobilizing three hundred thousand men he fought against the Ammonites and slaughtered them. This act of kindness was not forgotten, as the young men of Jabeshgilead, risked their lives and brought Saul's head and his three sons' bodies which were nailed on the ramparts of Bethshan by the Philistines, burnt them and buried the bones under the tamarisk tree in Jabesh. The citizens of Jabeshgilead were showing their gratitude and kindness to Saul and his family because he had slaughtered the Ammonites who at one time threatened them. Kindness often brings no material reward and sometimes makes us vulnerable as well. But it is a sign of true devotion, friendship, and love. Victor Jasti lives in India and is passionate about writing short stories based on the Bible and real incidents. He also writes Christian fiction and poetry. Five of his poems were published in Temporal Currents compiled by an American author, Ms. Christine Tricarico. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |