Dear Editor,

I write to you today with a heavy heart, reflecting on the events recorded in 2 Samuel 21.

During the reign of King David, the land of Israel faced a three-year famine. The people suffered, and David sought the face of the Lord to understand the cause of this calamity. The divine revelation was clear: The famine was a consequence of Saul’s actions against the Gibeonites.

The Gibeonites were not part of Israel, but they were survivors of the Amorites. Israel had sworn to spare them, yet Saul, in his zeal for Israel and Judah, attempted to annihilate them. His blood-stained house bore the guilt of this injustice. The Gibeonites, merciful in their request, did not seek silver or gold. Instead, they asked for justice — a fair retribution for their slain people.

David, in his wisdom, agreed to their plea. Seven sons of Saul were handed over to the Gibeonites for judgment. Their bodies were exposed before the Lord, and justice was served. Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah, guarded their remains from birds and wild animals, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to honour the dead.

In this account, we find lessons for our present time. Ministers, entrusted with spiritual leadership, must heed the consequences of their actions. Unfaithfulness, whether in word or deed, affects not only the individuals involved but also the entire community. Just as Saul’s zeal led to tragedy, so too can misguided zeal among ministers harm those they serve.

An unmistakable lesson from the passage of scripture is that a leader is not divorced from his office; therefore, whether the atrocities were committed by his Administration or a forgone Administration, God is holding him or her accountable to make ammends for those ills committed against the weak and vulnerable in our society.

It is undeniable that many unthinkable evils have been wrought against those who we should have been protecting, nurturing, and empowering. These were carried out by the monarchy; political enthusiasts; government entities (especially the armed forces); and corporate, civic and religious organisations. The financial sector, dons, gangs, neighbours, and families are not guiltless in their onslaught against the poor, marginalised, seniors, women, and children.

Let us learn from the Gibeonites’ example. They sought justice without vengeance, mercy without compromise. As we hold our spiritual, government, and corporate leaders accountable, may we do so with grace and a commitment to righteousness. The unfaithfulness of our leaders should not go unchecked, but neither should it lead to bitterness or division.

It is time for introspection and action, truth and reconciliation.

May we, like David, seek the face of the Lord when faced with challenges. Let justice prevail, and may our prayers be answered on behalf of our land. In this pursuit, may we remember Rizpah’s vigilance — a symbol of unwavering dedication to truth and justice.

Dr Ryan Reddie