Continued from yesterday. To start at the beginning click here.
Linus next concentrated his attention on the priest queue, which was shortest as it contained no angels. And now that it was agreed that the prophet, priest, or king would also sacrifice his life, the business at the fourth desk seemed to be further simplified. Two men, who, according to the records, had been priests, but who also had given their lives in the line of duty, were called to the head of the line. These were Abel and Zechariah. Abel had been a priest on his own behalf, and while his life was almost blameless, Linus wondered if Zechariah wouldn’t make a better choice since he had acted as a priest on behalf of others in the days of the divided kingdom. He had been most courageous in opposing the idolaters who stoned him right in the courtyard of the temple between the altar and the Holy Place. Oh, dear! This was not going to be an easy job. Linus dismissed the priests but had a word with Abel and Zechariah.
“The committee will make the recommendation,” he reminded them, “and the King himself will make the final choice. But unfortunately, I must inform you that only a perfect life can be given as a sin offering; therefore, your names can only be submitted as priestly candidates.”
They understood. Linus turned his attention to the third desk, where the kingly applicants were queued up, both men and angels. Linus wasn’t at all sure that progress was being made, even though there were only two remaining queues to deal with. He prayed for wisdom to accomplish this seemingly impossible job. Immediately his eyes fell on a sheaf of charts and graphs supplied by the Department of Records and Statistics. Picking these up, he discerned a significant fact—that while the angels had governed each other and had successfully administered God’s kingdom throughout the universe, none had ever ruled over men. With a feeling of satisfaction, Linus had a quick word with the interviewer, who nodded in agreement. The announcement was made, and the king angels dropped out of the queue and set about their normal duties. During the commotion, one of the kingly applicants raised a hand slightly, and catching Linus’ eye, beckoned to him. It was King David himself. He modestly admitted that his life was nothing like perfect, but in God’s own appraisal, he had a perfect heart toward God. And furthermore, he had offered to give him own life for the lives of God’s people following his fateful mistake of numbering the people. If any man could return to earth, then why couldn’t he just do so himself? Linus again held a consultation with the interviewer, dismissing the remaining applicants. L Linus had a parting word with David.
“Your words are kind and wise, he told him, “and our records do not reveal a more favorable king candidate than yourself. But I must remind you that only a perfect life can be given as a sin offering; therefore, we are recommending your name to the committee to fulfill only the role of king.” David understood. Linus returned to Heavenly Bodies for tea and biscuits.
The conclusion in tomorrow’s post.
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