Our tradition is full of stories that remind us that even the most unexpected journeys can lead to greatness. Take David, for example.
Midrash Tehillim, a collection of homiletic interpretations of the Book of Psalms, offers a glimpse into David's early life. We find him not on a throne, but in the fields, a shepherd tending to his flock. And not just tending – carefully observing, discerning. He'd gather the softest grass for the young lambs and the weak ones, and the tougher stuff for the goats and the stronger sheep.
Imagine that. A young man, meticulously caring for his animals, understanding their individual needs. And God sees this. God sees the compassion, the attention to detail, the inherent leadership. And God says, "This one is fit to be a shepherd for the people of Israel." The qualities needed to lead a flock of sheep – empathy, attentiveness, responsibility – are the very same qualities needed to lead a nation.
But when David becomes king, the people are astonished. "Yesterday," they murmur, "he was just a shepherd! And today, a king?" David, aware of their surprise, quotes from the Song of Songs (6:12), suggesting a deeper meaning, a divine hand at work.
And then, the Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit, responds: "By the Lord, this was wondrous in our eyes." It’s an affirmation. A recognition that this seemingly improbable rise was indeed orchestrated by God.
Midrash Tehillim then offers a parable: A common man carries a load for a duke, then rises through the ranks to become an officer himself. He sees the amazement in the eyes of those who knew him before. "You're amazed?" he asks. "I'm even more amazed than you are!"
This, the Midrash suggests, is how it will be in the world to come. When the nations of the world see Israel dwelling in peace, they will exclaim, "Aren’t these the ones who were oppressed? Aren’t these the ones who were pushed aside?"
And Israel will answer, "You are amazed at us? But we are more amazed than you!"
And again, the Holy Spirit will echo: "By the Lord, this was wondrous in our eyes."
What's the message here? It's a powerful reminder that transformation is possible. That greatness can emerge from the most humble beginnings. It's about recognizing the divine spark in ourselves and in others, even when it's hidden beneath the surface. It's about trusting that even the most improbable journeys can lead us exactly where we need to be. Just like David, the shepherd who became a king. It’s wondrous, isn’t it?