Daily Readings - Wed Aug 23 2017
Judges
6Then all the citizens of Shechem and Beth Millo gathered beside the great tree at the pillar in Shechem to crown Abimelech king.7When Jotham was told about this, he climbed up on the top of Mount Gerizim and shouted to them, "Listen to me, citizens of Shechem, so that God may listen to you.8One day the trees went out to anoint a king for themselves. They said to the olive tree, 'Be our king.'9"But the olive tree answered, 'Should I give up my oil, by which both gods and men are honored, to hold sway over the trees?'10"Next, the trees said to the fig tree, 'Come and be our king.'11"But the fig tree replied, 'Should I give up my fruit, so good and sweet, to hold sway over the trees?'12"Then the trees said to the vine, 'Come and be our king.'13"But the vine answered, 'Should I give up my wine, which cheers both gods and men, to hold sway over the trees?'14"Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, 'Come and be our king.'15"The thornbush said to the trees, 'If you really want to anoint me king over you, come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, then let fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!'
Sermon
The reading from Judges presents a parable spoken by Jotham, the son of Gideon, in response to the people of Shechem appointing Abimelech as their king. Jotham uses the metaphor of trees seeking a king to critique the shortsightedness and self-interest of the people. The olive tree, fig tree, and vine—all fruitful and beneficial—refuse to abandon their purpose to reign, while the bramble, a thorny and useless plant, accepts the role, warning that if the people do not submit to its rule, it will bring destruction. This parable serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of choosing leaders who prioritize power over the common good.
In this story, Jotham highlights the importance of humility and selflessness in leadership. The fruitful trees recognize the value of their current roles and refuse to abandon them for the sake of power, while the bramble, devoid of true worth, grasps at authority and threatens harm. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God’s displeasure with those who seek power for its own sake, rather than serving others. The context of Jotham’s speech is one of sorrow and warning, as he sees the people of Shechem making a choice that will lead to their downfall.
In our daily lives, this parable challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes toward leadership and service. Do we seek positions of influence for personal gain, or do we humbly serve others, recognizing the value of our current roles? Jotham’s words remind us that true leadership is not about dominance but about fostering the well-being of others. As we navigate our own choices and relationships, let us strive to emulate the olive tree, fig tree, and vine—remaining faithful to our responsibilities and trusting in God’s providence, rather than succumbing to the temptation of power that harms others.