THEOSISCaesarius of Arles
David approached and discovered the Israelites situated in the valley of the oak tree, ready to confront the Philistines, just as the true David, Christ, was destined to lead humanity from the valley of sin and sorrow. They arranged themselves in formations, hindered by the heavy burden of their transgressions. Though they stood prepared, courage to confront their foes was lacking. What was the reason for this? It was because David, a symbol of Christ, had not yet arrived. Truly, dear friends, who could have dared to battle the enemy before our Lord Christ freed humanity from his grasp? Notice how the name David signifies strength; indeed, what could be stronger, dear ones, than He who triumphed over the world through the cross instead of a sword?
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Furthermore, the Israelites faced their oppressors for forty days. Reflecting the four seasons and the four corners of the earth, these forty days symbolize the ongoing life in which Christians persistently strive against Goliath and his forces—representing the devil and his angels. It would have been impossible to conquer without Christ, the true David, descending with His staff, which embodies the sacrament of the cross. Indeed, the devil roamed freely before Christ's arrival, beloved friends, but through His coming, Christ accomplished what is proclaimed in the Gospel: How can anyone enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house (Matthew 12:29). Thus, Christ came and bound the devil.