Unlimited power can be a powerful drug indeed, and it can convince one that he or she is above the law or ordinary morality. Even the great King David was not immune to its temptations. He had power, wealth, and prestige, but that was not enough. He also wanted Bathsheba - the wife of one of his officers - and was willing to resort to deceit and murder in order to have her. But despite David's position and his status as God's favourite, God held him accountable for his wicked actions. All are equal in God's eyes, and all are accountable for their behaviour, regardless of their wealth, power, or station. David has been called the one who is both saint and sinner, for he was repentant before God and was regarded as the apple of God's eye. In other words, he was like many of us.

Trying to change ourselves may seem rather frustrating, but not as much as trying to change the world. We see so much evil and injustice outside of ourselves, and are dismayed at the darkness we find within us. But the kingdom parables are an encouragement, for they tell us that only a little of God's spirit is needed. It goes to work immediately, quietly and unseen, until it has completed its great work of transformation.