I heard Travis Greene, Christian Music Artist and Pastor say a few words in an interview on Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) about the difference between King David and King Saul. Our Old Testament reading in the Lectionary for today is all about how God punished King David for his sin in regards to Bathsheba. Both Kings had sinned greatly but David was punished and forgiven. I decided to share the rather profound thoughts that came from what Travis Greene shared, expanding just a little on what he said.

Travis said, "The difference between King David and King Saul wasn't necessarily the level of their sin. It was their return to and repentance to God." David remembered his roots - The root of Jesse, he was from the South, the bread basket of Israel, the area where the lambs for the temple were raised. David, never forgot he was once a shepherd boy, who sat in the fields and worshipped God, singing to the flock with a shepherd's harp. The equivalent today of a cowboy with single acoustic guitar, singing at the compfire, to keep the cattle calm.

Saul however forgot where he came from, he forgot that he used to be so humble that when God called him and the tribes gathered at Mispha, he was hiding in the luggage and baggage because he didn't feel worthy. But somewhere along the way he was corrupted by power, pride entered his heart and he never repented. Travis goes on to remind us to remember our roots - where we come from, where God found us. Remember to walk humbly with your God and remember the simple things, and prioritize keeping in the presence of God.

Our New Testament reading today is Jesus, calming the storm, a reminder to all those Christians in the world right now who are experiencing persecution, remember who is really in control. Sometimes he calms the storm, sometimes he walks through the storm with us. Do not fear those who can only kill the body; may God be with you all.

To those watching, and praying for the monarchist forces, calling for constitutional monarchy in Iran, continue to pray:

God-of-the-Angel-Armies, the One of Glory who sent me on my mission, commenting on the godless nations who stripped you and left you homeless, said, “Anyone who hits you, hits me — bloodies my nose, blackens my eye. Yes, and at the right time I’ll give the signal and they’ll be stripped and thrown out by their own servants.” Then you’ll know for sure that God-of-the-Angel-Armies sent me on this mission.-Zechariah 2:8-9