Barzillai

Have you ever been reading along in the Bible and have your tongue spin out of control and crash into your tonsils? For example… They left Bene Jaakan and camped at Hor Haggidgad (Numbers 33:32 –which I’m not even sure you can say in mixed company?). And then there are the names that are just impossible to read without a slight giggle… Bukki son of Jogli, the leader from the tribe of Dan (Numbers 34:22). Not to mention those names that sound like really bad nicknames: Dorcas, Nimrod, Ham, Mash and Jobab. Okay, I can understand that different cultures and languages seem odd because of unfamiliarity (read the ingredients on your favorite cereal box and see how funny you sound) but I must confess when Lamont on Men’s day brought up Barzillai I pictured a fictitious large green Japanese monster who frequented Sushi bars!

Now, if I can push past my silliness, I’ll discover first that Barzillai’s name means “iron” connoting the idea of strength. This aged soul (we’re told he is 80) who was instrumental in stabilizing the political hotbed of a son (Absalom) challenging his father (David) for control of the kingdom. Barzillai’s strength of character and wealth assisted David and his troops with provisions. Such allowed them to route Absalom’s army and pursue Absalom where he unfortunately caught his signature long locks in a tree and Joab, David’s chief general, killed him with thrusting three javelins into Absalom’s heart. High drama with elevated consequences but in the midst of this chaos was Barzillai’s devotion and soon to be rewarded friendship. Upon David’s return to Jerusalem to reclaim the throne David requests that Barzillai accompany him and be a part of his entourage. High praise indeed.

Here’s what I think this iron man story is all about. Barzillai requests that due to his aging body that his servant take his place (i.e. with strength comes diplomacy). Brazillai accompanies David over the Jordan but request to return to his homeland where he’s sure to join his deceased parents soon. True strength accepts limitations yet stays in the game. That is, I may not have youthful sight or stamina but what insight God has granted me drives me to go as far as I can! The Psalmist writes of the righteous… They will bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green (Psalm 92:14). May we all have the iron will to bear fruit even in our old age! -DAN