Father Mike Schmitz hosts The Bible in a Year podcast, reading from The Bible using the Revised Standard Version Second Catholic Edition and The Great Adventure Bible from Ascension Press. On day 141 of the systematic reading plan, he covers 2 Samuel 23, 1 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 42.

The episode focuses on David's final words and the transition of power to Solomon. Father Mike explores David's last oracle about just leadership, the heroic stories of his mighty men, and David's detailed instructions to Solomon for building the temple. The readings conclude with Psalm 42's expression of spiritual longing and trust in God's presence.

Father Mike emphasizes two key lessons from David's final days: giving God praise without becoming corrupted by life's battles, and looking beyond personal pain to recognize and honor the people who have served alongside us.

David's Final Oracle on Just Leadership

David's last words in The Bible declare: 'When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.'

David affirms God's everlasting covenant with his house, saying 'For he has made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and secure.'

The oracle contrasts godless men who 'are all like thorns that are thrown away' with righteous leadership that brings life and growth.

The Legendary Exploits of David's Mighty Men

Joseb Bas Shebeth, chief of the three mighty men, 'wielded his spear against 800 whom he slew at one time' in a single battle.

Eleazar fought Philistines 'until his hand was weary, and his hand clung to the sword' - continuing until physically unable to release his weapon.

Shema defended a plot of lentils alone when 'the men fled from the Philistines but he took his stand in the midst of the plot, and defended it.'

Three mighty men risked their lives to bring David water from Bethlehem's well, but David 'poured it out to the Lord' saying 'Shall I drink the blood of the men who went at risk of their lives?'

Solomon's Temple Commission and Warning

David tells Solomon in The Bible: 'Know the God of your Father, and serve him with a whole heart and a willing mind' - words that foreshadow Solomon's eventual spiritual failure.

God's warning proves prophetic: 'If you seek him, he will be found by you. But if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.'

David provides detailed temple plans 'made clear by the writing from the hand of the Lord' including specifications for gold, silver, and sacred vessels.

Father Mike notes the chronicler's perspective: 'Solomon is going to start out so strong. He is not going to end strong' - knowing the full arc of Solomon's reign.

Spiritual Longing and God's Faithful Presence

Psalm 42 in The Bible expresses deep spiritual thirst: 'As a deer longs for flowing streams, so longs my soul for you, O God.'

The psalmist faces the taunt 'Where is your God?' but responds with hope: 'Hope in God, for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.'

Father Mike emphasizes God's faithfulness: 'When we turn our backs on the Lord, he does not abandon those he loves. And he loves you so much.'

David's Legacy of Praise Over Bitterness

Father Mike highlights David's choice at life's end: 'He could choose to be corrupted by the fact that he's done wrong... and yet he gave God praise.'

David demonstrates looking 'up from our own pain' to recognize others: 'Can I tell the world of their greatness? Can I praise them in the face of other people?'

The invitation extends to daily life: 'Today, can I recognize that? Can I recognize those things without bitterness, without resentment?'