Nathan was a bold prophet. He had the guts to confront King David when God sent him to rebuke him. Nathan skillfully tells a story about a poor man who had one sheep that grew like his daughter in the family. A rich neighbor, who owns several flocks, snatched that poor man’s sheep and slaughtered it for his guest. Hearing this story, David got angry and shouted: That man should die, the poor man should be given four-fold, because that man had no pity. Nathan simply said: You are the man. (II Samuel 12) Like David, people of God are willing to judge and condemn others but refuse to do introspection. The same anger was not shown for himself. A selfish attitude does not self-condemn, only condemns others.
Anger: David’s anger against the rich man was right and righteous. The rich man who had enough must not rob or snatch the only possession of the poor man. It was the sin of covetousness, a clear violation of the Tenth Commandment. Injustice, social evil, and oppression should rightly shock and shake the believers. Yet, it is important to do a self-introspection before getting angry with others.
Restore and repay: The rich man committed a daylight robbery. He was not stealing to feed himself as he was starving. For him, his reputation as a great host with generous hospitality was important. In fact, he was hungry in his ego and needed a booster dose from his visitor. His ego could trample other people’s rights, possessions, and precious ownership. As Ahab stole the vineyard of Naboth and killed him, David stole the wife of Uriah and murdered him. (I Kings 21) When a thief is caught, he must restore fourfold. (Exodus 22:2; Leviticus 5:16) David knew the Law well but did not apply it to himself. David could not restore four-fold as Uriah was dead, God allowed four of David’s sons to face death: sons born to Bathsheba, Absalom, Amnon, and Adonijah.
No pity: David condemned the rich man for lack of mercy or pity, which he lacked.
Am I quick to condemn or introspect myself often?