In our previous reading, we saw how David succumbed to insecurity and a need for control, rather than trusting God. He ordered a census of the people, but this grieved the Lord and though he repented, David was given a choice of three punishments. He chose a punishment that would affect his people, rather than him alone, and thousands of Israelites died because of David’s sin. But David saw his error, cried out to the Lord and interceded for Israel, staying God’s hand of judgement and once again acting as a shepherd to his people. Today we’ll hear about the choice of David’s successor. Two brothers, very different from each other, stand as candidates for the role of king. Once more, as we’ve seen again and again since the first brothers to walk this earth, jealousy and rivalry will threaten to poison the waters.