GOD’S INTENTION

[1]“The path to hell is paved with good intentions.” I remember a family member casually using this maxim one day. A teenager at the time, I was repelled by the thought. It made me think the world was a trap, designed by an evil genius, a life with rules vulnerable to manipulation. That after doing my best to play by the rules, I might still be thrown under the bus by an ill-tempered God. I imagined myself, completely spent after a life of trying to do the right thing and perplexedly staring at the gates of hell.[2]

King David after gaining control of Jerusalem, built himself a house of cedar. He’s proud of his accomplishments, however, his conscience troubles him. He’s enjoying the luxury of a fine, permanent residence, but the ark of the covenant is still housed in a tent. David speaks with the prophet Nathan about this inconsistency. Initially, Nathen states the obvious, “Whatever is in your heart, go and do, for the LORD is with you.” (2 Sm 7:3)

That same night, God speaks to Nathan—in effect, telling him to go ask David who he thinks he is, “is it you who will build me a house” (2 Sm 7:5) when, in fact, Yahweh is the master builder. God’s concern isn’t a dwelling place for himself, but rather an everlasting kingdom.

In light of the Advent/Christmas seasons, this reading can be interpreted as: 1) God’s opposition to a temple because the ark is in a movable tent and, therefore, a stronger sign that God will be with the people no matter where they are; 2) God is building a household for David, not vice versa; 3) God is assuring David’s seed will rule Israel forever; and 4) this promise is the inspiration for the Jewish expectation of a Messiah.

The importance that Jews placed on the promise of a Davidic dynasty; “Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me”, (2 Sm 7:16) is evident in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke affirming Joseph, husband of Mary, was from the house of David as listed in their genealogies for Jesus.[3]

The ark will go missing; David’s dynasty seemingly ends with the Babylonian exile; but the promise remains in the people’s hearts and minds. They trust in the Lord’s promise.

While today’s first reading doesn’t include v14b, there is an important proviso in Nathan’s prophecy. God makes clear that sins will be punished, but God will not withdraw his favor from David’s seed. Therefore, we can trust in the Lord’s promise. For God’s intention is that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Heb 13:5)

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[1] Scripture (NABRE), Isaiah 48:17-19; Matthew 11:16-19.

[2] Blessedishe.net, “Good Intentions vs. God’s Intentions” by Savanna J. Buckner, June 11, 2018

[3] Weekday HomilyHelps, Exegesis and Homily Suggestion by Norman Langenbrunner