Who Could Be King?

In an ancient kingdom lived a strong, proud and handsome king. He was skilled in battle and loved by the people. There was peace in the land and people had food in their bellies. So I guess they were happy enough.

But as time went by, the king changed. He cared less about doing what was right and more about doing what was good for himself. The king was still king....but it was time for a new king. Who could it be?

One of the wise prophets went from the palace on a secret mission to find the new king. Taking a gift, he travelled far from the city. Finally, he came to a small town. He found the home he was looking for and knew his search would soon be over.

The brothers in the household were very excited. The all wondered which one of them would be chosen. They scrubbed their faces, combed their hair and dressed as neatly as they could. One by one, they were brought before the stranger from the palace. The firstborn son was tall and handsome. He stood confidently- legs firm, back straight and chest strong. Surely this was the one? But no. The prophet said that he could not be king. The second son approached and the wise man looked carefully at him. But no. He could not be king. Out came the third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh sons. Each looked impressive. But no. None of them could be king.

The wise man asked the father if there were, perhaps, any other sons? Only one. But he was out feeding the buffalos. Just a young boy. Surely he could not be king?

The youngest son was soon found. He had no time to change his clothes. He splashed some water over his face and brushed his hair back with his hands but as he stood humbly before the older man, his hair flopped over his eyes again. The prophet saw in front of him a boy whose skin had been darkened by the sun. He saw a frame that was small but strong. He saw a heart that was not proud.

He could be king. He would rule with kindness and justice. David could be king. So the wise man took the horn of oil and poured it over David's head as his older brothers watched. From that day on David was filled with power.

Then the king went back to tend the buffalos.