Jonathan and David, a Very Special Friendship预览

An emotional farewell

“Then Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, because we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘The Lord shall be between me and you, and between my offspring and your offspring, forever.’’ And he rose and departed, and Jonathan went into the city.” (1 Samuel 20:42-43)

King Saul was determined to kill David. Even Jonathan could not change his mind. David had to flee for his life. And that meant the friends had to say goodbye, perhaps forever.

Outside the city, in a secret place, they met one last time. Both men cried. But they also repeated the promises they had made to each other “in the name of the LORD.” And then their paths parted.

Later, when David was hiding from Saul in the desert, Jonathan came to see him again to encourage him, “Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Saul my father also knows this” (1 Samuel 23:17). Once again, the friends confirmed their covenant before the Lord, and once again they had to go their separate ways . Probably this was the last time they saw each other on earth.

Have you ever had to say goodbye to people you loved? What impact does it have on you that you may never see these people again on earth? And what about life after death; will you meet them again in heaven?