Day 112: True Friendship

Today's readings: 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 142.

I. 1 Samuel 20 tells of the deep friendship between David and Jonathan as they discover that Saul really is determined to kill David. I'm guessing the previous attempts weren't clear enough for them. Their friendship is indeed a deep one, given almost marital terms that have been misunderstood or exploited, really, by certain groups today seeking approval for same-sex relationships. They loved each other, which is true, but theirs was a philia kind of love, not one of eros. So much so that Jonathan could say that he loved David "as his own soul," without intending any sort of sexual attraction towards him. I'm not sure how far back such disordered speculation goes about their relationship, but it does seem to be quite popular nowadays among some, sadly enough. That not only distorts Scripture, which clearly condemns such behavior, but also dishonors both biblical figures and all men who care for each other like they did.

At any rate, when Saul throws a spear at Jonathan in anger upon discovering the absence of David at a dinner meal, it becomes clear to both David and Jonathan that Saul has murderous intent towards David. So David flees.

The BIY Companion, Vol I, has some good commentary on this:

Scripture makes clear that David and Jonathan love one another. Their love is not disordered, however - it is philia, a true friendship love... In 1 Samuel, we see this type of love reflected in the brotherhood between David and Jonathan. They are united in their pursuit of honoring Israel and seeking the glory of God. David and Jonathan recognize this virtue in each other, so they love each other and help each other in a particular way... If you have experienced philia, then you know its power. Philia is closest to a fourth kind of love, agape - sacrificial, divine love. Agape has become a reality for Christians through the grace of God in Jesus Christ. All the loves come to perfection in the person of Jesus Christ, who loves us to the point of death, calls us friends, and gives us his Spirit. (p. 240)

II. Psalm 142 is, as the Ignatius Bible notes (verse numbers removed):

A lament psalm. The poet complains of his troubles, mourns that no one will help him, and turns to the Lord as his only refuge. The nature of his plight is unclear, although he mentions "persecutors" who are too powerful for him to resist or escape. The psalm ends with a hopeful prospect of giving "thanks" to God for coming to his rescue. (p. 951)

The BIY Companion, Vol I, also recommends this video with Fr. Mike Schmitz on why love is more than a feeling:

That's it for today! Happy 250th Independence Day!!! God bless the USA!