Questioning Authority

1 Samuel 17:17-30

Our reading from 1 Samuel today takes place along the lines of the army of the Israelites as they stand shamefaced in the presence of Goliath. No one will fight this imposing warrior, and David, son of Jesse, wants to know why. But his words sound impertinent to his older brother who rebukes him sharply. "David said, 'What have I done now? It was only a question'” (1 Samuel 17:29).

Only a question. How often does a question, innocent or not, stir up trouble or bring issues into focus? When Jesus asked his followers what the crowds were saying about him it could be seen as simple curiosity. Then Jesus said, "But who do you say that I am?" and suddenly the disciples were forced to make some decisions, to clarify what they thought about this teacher and healer. Another time those who opposed Jesus tried to trap him by asking about the legality of Roman taxes. But Jesus turned their question inside out and allowed them to see the fault lines in their own faith. And the question, "Who is my neighbor?" prompted Jesus to share one of the most familiar stories in the New Testament about a traveling Samaritan who meets the needs of a badly injured Jew.

Set next to questions like these David's inquiry seems almost innocent. But we know that at the heart of David's words lay a challenge to the faithfulness of everyone who heard them. Something must be done and we are the people who, by God's grace, are called to do it. Sound familiar? It should. That's the reality of being a part of the community of faith. Things need doing. Isn't it time we got busy?

Prayer: Lord, we have questions, lives full of them. We question our role in the world, we question our place in society, we question our need for your word. We question those around us and their right to exist. We are puzzled by the anger we witness and curious about our own needs. Lord of all, hear our questions and answer them according to your will. But with your answers give us ears to hear and hearts to understand. In Jesus’ name. Amen.