| DAVID CAUGHT IN THE ACT |
| Israel had a strange way to remember its heroes. |
| Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. 51:4 |
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| David found a place in the hearts of Israelites something like the one Abraham Lincoln found in the hearts of Americans. Both men led their nations through dark hours with courage, wisdom, and deep faith. But there are essential differences in the way they are remembered. Suppose, for example, that Abraham Lincoln had been caught in the act of adultery. Would his private outpouring of grief before God have been included in America's July 4th celebration? Hardly: America tends to cover up the faults of its heroes, and even invent stories about their spotless honesty. Yet, for David, no coverup was attempted. Just the opposite: Psalm 51 publishes David's anguished reaction when he was caught in sin. The story behind the psalm is told in 2 Samuel 11 and 12 - a sordid tale of adultery, intrigue, and murder. David, the greatest king in Israel's history, acted like the worst. David apparently thought nothing of his crime until the prophet Nathan accused him to his face. Then, in tears, David confessed - and this poem was one result. It was recorded (along with the story of David's deeds) in the holy Scriptures. It may well have been used in worship services, as a guide for others' confession. David's Greatest Legacy All nations have heroes. Israel may have been alone in making heroic literature about its heroes' failings. In confessing his failures openly, David was certainly unique among all leaders of his day. He knew his place before God, and this humility made him an example for his people. Ultimately Israel remembered David more for his devotion to |