But the prophet Gad said to David, “Do not stay in the stronghold. Go into the land of Judah.” So David left and went to the forest of Hereth. – 1 Samuel 22:5

Today’s Scripture Reading (December 20, 2012): 1 Samuel 22:3-23

Christmas songs can be depressing. I think that this is at least partly because we have such great expectations for Christmas. As children, we remember the anticipation of Christmas, we remember family gatherings and games and all of the intangibles that make Christmas – well, Christmas. But as we grow older, some of those intangibles begin to fade. Sometimes health problems interfere with the celebration, and often the important people just are not able to be with us on Christmas Day – and we almost start to feel guilty about having the celebration without them.

Our music reflects that sense of melancholy. I’ll have a blue Christmas (but the next words speak of loss), without you. Or the Christmas Classic – I’ll be home for Christmas, You can count on me, Please have snow and mistletoe and presents on the tree – but the last line of the song once again speak of the unavoidable separation of Christmas – I’ll be home for Christmas, If only in my dreams. Christmas, ultimately, is all about home. And when you cannot be home – well that can be depressing.

David had been told that he would be king. But the current king (Saul) was still alive. And as you read through the story, you begin to see that David only wants to serve Saul. He knew his time would come, but he also felt that there was no rush. Everything would come to pass in God’s time, and for David, that was just the way that he wanted it. But Saul did not see it that way. It was not enough for Saul that he was king, when he died his dream was that one of his sons would sit on the throne of Israel. And Saul was willing to fight to see his dream come true.

The conflict that was brewing was one that God could see coming. And so he sent a message to David. It was time for him to go home (Judah). In the coming days it was only in Judah that David would be able to find the support that he needed and only in Judah that David would be able to find a measure of security. David needed to be home.

Home is where we are loved and secure and we all need some time just to be home just like David did. My prayer for you is that you are able to be home this Christmas. And, if you are not able to be home, I know that home will be thinking (and dreaming) of you.

Tomorrow’s Scripture Reading: Psalm 52