An elderly King David lies alone in his bed, nearing the end of his life. A bitter succession conflict erupts outside of the palace. Adonijah, one of David’s sons, forms an alliance and proclaims himself king. By his side are two of the most influential members of David’s court—Abiathar, the priest, and Joab, commander of Israel’s army. The prophet Nathan is not summoned to this occasion. Nathan informs Bathsheba—whose son, Solomon, is the one meant to inherit the throne—of all that has occurred. Nathan and Bathsheba quickly go to King David, who instructs them to anoint Solomon as soon as possible. They go to the Gihon Spring to anoint the true heir before Adonijah is officially made king at En Rogel—another spring, south of the Siloam Pool. David continues to pursue his life mission. He knows that there are matters, including the building of God’s temple, that must be addressed following his death—and he wants to be sure that it will all be executed by the right person. As news of the coronation reaches Adonijah, he quickly takes hold of the altar’s horns to ensure that no one will hurt him. Solomon promises his brother that he will live—unless he challenges his kingship again.
“And king David said, Call me Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada. And they came before the king. The king also said unto them, Take with you the servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my son to ride upon mine own mule, and bring him down to Gihon: And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel: and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save king Solomon. Then ye shall come up after him, that he may come and sit upon my throne; for he shall be king in my stead: and I have appointed him to be ruler over Israel and over Judah” (1 Kings 1:32-35)
Persistence is the relentless pursuit of our personal mission.
