David conducted a census. Seems like something governments do. However, David regretted having numbered the people, and said to the LORD: “I have sinned grievously in what I have done. But now, LORD, forgive the guilt of your servant, for I have been very foolish.” The Bible suggests that the sin was relying on strength rather than on the Lord. This is a perennial temptation of leaders: being able to enforce one’s will instead of acting to create systems of justice and accountability. On a personal level we are tempted to rely on our bank accounts or health regime rather than on the Lord. According to the account, actions have consequences. David can’t simply say “my bad” and move on. There is a price to pay for ignoring God. We pay that price when, despite our best plans, things fall apart and we are forced to turn to the Lord to find a way forward. One interesting side bar — the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite where the pestilence stopped became the site for the Jerusalem temple…. and was remembered as the site where Abraham bound Isaac preparing him for sacrifice. The lesson seems to be that the Lord is with us for the long haul so trust in the divine plan.
