Episode Summary: Day 144 - David's Last Words

Podcast Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host/Author: Ascension
Episode: Day 144: David's Last Words
Release Date: May 24, 2025

Introduction

In Day 144 of The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the poignant final moments of King David's life as recorded in First Kings Chapter 2 and Second Chronicles Chapters 2 and 3. This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of David's last instructions to his son Solomon, Solomon's subsequent actions to solidify his reign, and the significant beginnings of the Temple's construction. Additionally, a heartfelt prayer through Psalm 62 anchors the episode, inviting listeners to reflect deeply on God's guidance and faithfulness.

Scripture Readings

1. David's Final Instructions (1 Kings 2):
Fr. Mike begins by reading First Kings Chapter 2, where David imparts crucial guidance to Solomon as his reign approaches its end. David advises Solomon to "be strong and show yourself a man, and keep the charge of the Lord your God" (1 Kings 2:2). He emphasizes adherence to God's statutes and warns against the treacherous actions of Joab and others who have opposed him. David's instructions include directives to eliminate threats to Solomon's throne, such as Adonijah, Joab, Abiathar the priest, and Shimei, ensuring a peaceful and stable reign for his son.

2. Solomon's Preparations for the Temple (2 Chronicles 2-3):
Transitioning to Second Chronicles Chapters 2 and 3, Fr. Mike outlines Solomon's ambitious plans to build the Temple in Jerusalem. Solomon mobilizes a large workforce, secures materials from Tyre through King Hiram, and meticulously oversees the construction process. The detailed description of the Temple’s architecture and adornments highlights Solomon's dedication to creating a holy and magnificent place for worship, reflecting his commitment to God’s glory.

3. Prayer through Psalm 62:
The episode includes a guided prayer based on Psalm 62, a song of trust authored by David. This prayer underscores the themes of steadfast faith, divine protection, and reliance on God amidst adversity. Fr. Mike invites listeners to internalize the Psalm's message, fostering a personal connection with God's unwavering support.

Reflections and Discussions

David's Legacy and Solomon's Challenge:
Fr. Mike reflects on the dual nature of David's legacy. While David is often celebrated as a "man after God's own heart," his final instructions reveal a more complex character grappling with political and familial challenges. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of David’s counsel to Solomon, highlighting the weight of leadership and the necessity of maintaining God's commandments amidst human imperfections.

Solomon’s Consolidation of Power:
The discussion moves to Solomon’s immediate actions following David’s death. Fr. Mike explains how Solomon diligently follows his father's advice, executing justice against Adonijah and Joab to prevent any threats to his throne. This meticulous consolidation of power demonstrates Solomon’s commitment to establishing a stable and God-centered kingdom.

The Role of Bathsheba and the Queen Mother:
A significant portion of the reflection focuses on Bathsheba’s strategic role in Solomon’s court. Initially depicted as submitting to King David, Bathsheba’s approach to Solomon signifies her elevated status as the Queen Mother (Hebrew: gebirah). Fr. Mike draws parallels between Bathsheba’s position and the veneration of Mary in the New Testament, illustrating the continuity of honoring maternal figures within the divine kingdom. He notes, “In the ancient kingdom, the queen is not the wife of the king but the mother of the king,” underscoring the spiritual and authoritative role the Queen Mother holds.

Lessons from Solomon’s Temple Construction:
Fr. Mike highlights Solomon’s dedication to building the Temple as a manifestation of his wisdom and obedience to God. The Temple’s grandeur and meticulous design symbolize the centrality of worship and the desire to create a dwelling place for God amidst His people. This endeavor serves as a foundational act that cements Solomon’s reign and fulfills divine promises made to David.

Insights and Conclusions

Balancing Advice with Example:
One of the key insights from Fr. Mike's reflection is the distinction between verbal advice and lived example. While David offers Solomon wise counsel to "walk in his ways and keep his statutes" (1 Kings 2:3), his own life exhibits both adherence and deviation from these principles. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of leaders embodying the values they espouse, suggesting that true guidance extends beyond words to actions.

The Significance of Adhering to God’s Will:
Solomon’s strict adherence to David’s instructions, especially in dealing with adversaries, illustrates his commitment to upholding God's will over personal or political gains. This fidelity ensures the establishment of a just and righteous kingdom, aligning with the divine blueprint for Israel’s leadership.

Continuity Between Old and New Covenants:
Fr. Mike draws theological connections between the Old Testament narratives and New Testament revelations. The honoring of Bathsheba as the Queen Mother foreshadows the reverence for Mary, emphasizing a perpetual divine pattern of honoring those who faithfully support God’s mission. He states, “...in the New Covenant, the church, the new kingdom on earth, in heaven as well, is meant to be the fulfillment of the ancient kingdom of Israel.”

Preparation for Future Episodes:
Looking ahead, Fr. Mike hints at upcoming discussions on Solomon’s wisdom and the ongoing construction of the Temple. He encourages listeners to continue reflecting on the lessons from Solomon’s reign and their application to contemporary faith journeys.

Notable Quotes

• Fr. Mike Schmitz on David’s Advice:
  “David's last words are, hey, make sure you kill these people or make sure that you show some kind of leniency to others. But what is David doing? David is imparting his hard-earned wisdom.”
  (Timestamp: 16:25)

• On Solomon's Consolidation of Power:
  “Solomon consolidates his reign by fulfilling his father’s advice, dealing justly with Adonijah and Joab, ensuring peace and stability for his kingdom.”
  (Timestamp: 04:20)

• Regarding Bathsheba’s Role:
  “Bathsheba walked into the king's presence, and he rose up to meet her and bowed down to her. She sat at his right hand because in the ancient kingdom, the queen is the mother of the king.”
  (Timestamp: 22:17)

• On Guidance vs. Example:
  “Children pay more attention to the example that we set rather than the advice that we offer. David's life was a divided heart, yet his advice to Solomon was clear and firm.”
  (Timestamp: 18:05)

• Connecting Old and New Testaments:
  “In the New Covenant, Jesus Christ our Lord and God himself would give his mom, the Queen Mother, honor... And that's why we're paying honor to Mary today.”
  (Timestamp: 23:20)

Conclusion

Day 144 of The Bible in a Year offers a rich tapestry of biblical narratives intertwined with profound reflections on leadership, legacy, and divine purpose. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully navigates the complexities of David’s final instructions and Solomon’s responses, drawing timeless lessons applicable to both personal faith and communal leadership. As Solomon embarks on building the Temple, listeners are invited to contemplate the enduring relevance of these ancient stories and their implications for living a life aligned with God's will.

For more insights and to follow the complete Bible reading plan, visit Ascension Press. Subscribe to The Bible in a Year podcast to journey through Scripture with Fr. Mike Schmitz daily.