Risk: 1 Samuel 20:4-23
God’s people watch out for one another, accepting risk in the pursuit of truth, and genuinely desiring the best possible outcome for others. Sometimes this means we become sounding boards and offer verbal guidance. Sometimes we physically walk with members of our community through difficult moments in their life. Sometimes we embrace risk on our own behalf to protect the interests of a brother or sister in God.
David knew Jonathan was being naïve when he tried to assure David everything was well between him and Saul. The Bible doesn’t go into detail on how David convinced Jonathan to see matters his way, but it would not have been a difficult task. More than once, Saul had murderous intentions towards David. Jonathan realizes David is right to be wary.
The two men plan. A festival is coming up, and the king has a feast where his mighty men gather in celebration. David plans to miss the feast and see how Saul reacts. Jonathan plans to tell his father David went to his home in Bethlehem to celebrate. If Saul is angry, the anger would indicate Saul planned evil against David and is upset at missing the opportunity. If Saul is happy, the happiness would indicate Saul is good with David and genuinely wishes him well with his family.
David and Jonathan also realize Saul’s spies are everywhere. They need a signal in case Jonathan is observed. In this way, the spies won’t detect the secret message passing between them. This would be especially prudent should David be right and Saul have murderous intent. Jonathan plans to return in three days, shoot some arrows, and send David a hidden message through the commands he gives to his servant.
David places his life in Jonathan’s hands. Jonathan could easily betray him. He could tell David all is well, knowing Saul has murderous intent, and David would be none the wiser. Because Jonathan could easily entrap David, David’s willingness to place himself in Jonathan’s hands speaks to the bond between them. David is convinced Jonathan would not inherently harm David, even if Jonathan does have a blind spot regarding his father.
Jonathan also willingly places his life at risk. If Saul has murderous intent, David is concerned Saul will lash out at Jonathan when he explains David’s absence. Saul has demonstrated his capacity for irrational emotional outbursts more than once. David’s fear for Jonathan is warranted.
The stakes are high. Both men are willing to risk their lives. Jonathan and David demonstrate genuine community, brought together by the Spirit of God. God calls us to lead sacrificially, willing to accept risk for one another upon His call. He is the same God who sent His Son to embrace our sin and die upon the cross so we could live. God’s people watch out for one another, accepting risk in the pursuit of truth, and genuinely desire the best possible outcome for others.
