Authenticity

Tomorrow we hear the familiar story of David and Goliath – a young shepherd boy who defeats a giant. What struck me when preparing for tomorrow’s sermon is that after David convinces King Saul that his experience as a shepherd has equipped him to fight the Giant, Saul outfits David with the heavy armor of a warrior. The armor is so heavy, David can’t even walk!  

Clearly, Saul hadn’t listened to David. Saul hadn’t seen David for who he was. Rather, Saul saw David through the lens of his own life and his own values. Fortunately, David knew who he was, removed the amor, and took up a slingshot. Perhaps David’s confidence to claim who he was came from the fact that Samuel had recently anointed him king (secretly). David knew he was a beloved child of God. Chosen.God had seen him for who he was! 

Later, David would write these words of Psalm 139, “You knit me in my mother’s womb … I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” By claiming his own gifts David is able to face and defeat the giant. 

The lesson for us is to do the same. Know yourself. You are enough as you are. Chosen and loved. And more so, honor and respect one another. God has created a diversity of people, each with their own gifts. No two people are alike. Listen and discover the unique and many ways the people in your life have been created. By living authentically and honoring the authenticity of your neighbor, we can thrive together as one people.