We are always preparing for something in this life. We prepare for the arrival of a baby. We prepare for the end of college. We prepare to move to a new house, a new city, or even a new country. But we never seem prepared to be separated by death. The first book of Samuel ends where the second one begins, with the death of Saul. David feels the pain of saying goodbye; in his mournful words, David declares what his heart feels. He uses instruments of war to bring to memory the meaning of Saul and Jonathan in his life. Saul and Jonathan used bows and swords with accuracy and efficiency; Jonathan’s archery skills helped David escape the wrath of Saul. (Read 1 Samuel 20:35-42.)
David’s generous praises, that include Saul, whom he had previously tried to kill, show that forgiveness is part of David’s life, since he himself had received God’s forgiveness and enjoyed God’s merciful love. In this text, David expresses a deep compassion and forgiveness for Saul, acknowledging his value to Israel as a leader, “who clothed you with crimson, in luxury.” He also expresses his love for and friendship with Jonathan.
Farewells awaken in us a variety of feelings, and it is no different with David. Although he recognizes the shortcomings of Saul and holds Jonathan in high esteem, he turns this moment of pain and memory into a song for a lifetime. Many times when we experience goodbyes in life, we encounter a myriad of feelings. Sometimes they help us grow; other times they continue to pain us. Our greatest challenge comes in dealing with each feeling in due time, taking it in and growing.