Judges 9: 7-21

Apparently not everyone was happy with the choice to make Abimelech the king. Jotham, one of Gideon's sons addressed the people of Shechem with a story of nature. He stood at the top of the hill so that all could see and hear him. It also provided him an escape route should things go south as well. The commentary put it this way: The story had a moral meaning. It was about trees that were choosing a king. The olive, fig and vine refused to be the king. The meaning of the story was this. Good men would not stop their work to become kings. The bush with sharp points accepted the invitation. The bush invited them to come into its shade (that is, its protection). But the bush was not able to protect anything. In the heat of summer, it could easily burn. It could destroy even the valuable tall trees that are always green. These trees were like the chief men of Shechem. Abimelech could not give the people any protection. Instead, he would cause their destruction.

Clearly his intent was to discredit his brother and his means to the ascension to power. He had to kill 70 family members to whack his way to the top. Jotham continued to tell the people how much they disrespected and under appreciated his father, Gideon and his line. Clearly, he felt that Abimelech had no value as a person not mention that of a king. He warned them that following Abimelech would lead to death and destruction.

Heard some disturbing news from my results and have to take more blood from my earlier tests on Saturday. Finally got some clarity as far as the arrangements for A. Bonnie and will take the appropriate actions to make myself available on Friday and Saturday. Still anxious but always trusting...  Glad Irene took the initiative and told the boys.

Praise for today: The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in times of trouble. Psalm 37: 39