THEOSISCaesarius of Arles
David approached and discovered the Israelites gathered in the valley of the oak tree, readying themselves to battle the Philistines. This moment foreshadowed the arrival of Christ, the true David, who would guide humanity out of the abyss of sin and sorrow. They formed ranks against one another, trapped in the valley under the heavy burden of their transgressions. They stood ready, yet did not have the courage to confront their foes. What caused this hesitation? It was because the figure of David, a precursor to Christ, had not yet appeared. Indeed, dear brethren, who could have engaged the devil prior to our Lord Christ freeing humanity from his grasp?
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Notice that the name David denotes strength; and what greater strength exists than He who triumphed over the entire world through the cross rather than through a sword? Additionally, the Israelites faced their enemies for forty days. As the world encompasses four seasons and four corners, these forty days symbolize the ongoing existence where Christians continually battle against Goliath and his army, representing the devil and his fallen angels. Furthermore, victory would have been elusive had Christ, the true David, not descended with His staff, which embodies the sacrament of the cross. Indeed, before Christ's arrival, the devil roamed freely, dear brethren; yet through His coming, Christ fulfilled what is declared in the Gospel: How can anyone enter the home of a strong man and seize his belongings unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his home (Matthew 12:29). Therefore, Christ came and bound the devil.