The story of David vs. Goliath has become such a part of most cultures that we almost take it for granted. The term, the analogy, of smaller, younger David going up against the massive, older and more established Goliath is commonly used in modern times in situations involving business, sports, politics and more. But to read and reread the original accounting of the story, with all its vivid imagery in the Book of Samuel, is something we probably don’t often do.

Putting the inherent violence aside – the words and actions involving rotting flesh and beheadings, etc. – what emerges is David’s confidence in his Lord. Though he was young, he knew where he stood with God and that God loved him and would be with him. The relationship he had with the Creator God guided his life and gave him the assurance that he could defeat the mighty Philistine.

The next time we hear the David vs. Goliath reference used in conversation or in the news media, we could pause for a moment and remember the true significance of the analogy: a youth’s humble faith in his God and in God’s love.  

In the Gospel reading from Mark, I saw Jesus display the same Divine attentiveness that David received. Jesus was surrounded by many people in the synagogue, but his notice went to the man with the withered hand. Despite the problems it would cause him with the Pharisees, Jesus still gave his attention, and healing, to the man. He was drawn to the one in great need. He demonstrated what he says in Luke 12: 6-7, “Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”

Today is the feast day of St. Anthony the Abbot, an Egyptian man (251-356 A.D.) who drastically changed his life and went off to be alone with God because of words he heard in the New Testament. He is considered the father of Christian monasticism, although he never established a monastery. He lived a life of faith and prayer in the desert; people were drawn to him, miraculous healings followed, and others found inspiration to live a life of asceticism. Despite the deprivation he chose for his life, he lived to be 105 and was strong and healthy.

Today’s readings speak to me of God’s attention and love for each of us. Like David, I can put my trust in God when I am facing a difficult situation, and like the man with the withered hand, I can draw near to Jesus and sit quietly, confident that he knows my needs and will help me. And while radical asceticism is not for everyone, St. Anthony the Abbot does represent the importance of listening to God’s voice in our hearts and minds and lives, and following that voice to the best of our abilities and leaving the outcome to God.