Are you looking for a leader? In almost every organization and level of government, there seems to be a dearth of leadership. People search but do not find. Have we ever needed a leader more than we do now?
Samuel and all of Israel were looking for a leader. They had Saul, but the earthquake of his own choices had left his kingship in ruins. God told Samuel to go to Bethlehem to the descendants of Ruth and Boaz to find the king chosen by God.
Samuel surveyed the parade of the sons of Jesse. The eldest son looked the part but lacked the heart. God guided Samuel with this counsel: People look at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. Not Eliab, not Abinadab, not Shammah, not unnamed sons four through seven. “Have you any other sons?” Samuel asked. “The baby is caring for the sheep,” Jesse answered, not even mentioning the name of son number eight. (When is the baby no longer the baby?)
Enter David, smelling like sheep, smiling with joy, selected by God. Samuel anointed him with oil. God anointed him with his Spirit. Now, David had everything he needed to lead. What did God see in David? The Psalmist tells us he had humility, integrity, and ability. Shepherds of sheep learn to shepherd people. Years alone with God had cultivated deep integrity. His hands were skillful with a sling and sword to defeat a lion or bear, and skillful enough to play the lyre to salve Saul’s troubled soul.
The leader we look for is never on the ballots in the voting booths. He serves as a humble Shepherd of the flock of God, the church. He lived with perfect integrity. Best of all, our leader is able. See how skillfully his hands formed trees, healed the sick, raised the dead, and received nails. Are you looking for a leader? So am I. His name is Jesus.
