Absalom was the son of David. Jesus was also known as a "Son of David" (Lk 18:33). Like Jesus, Absalom hung from a tree and was suspended between heaven and earth before he died. He was killed when his heart was pierced with three lances (2 Sm 18:9, 14). Although Absalom was directly opposite from Jesus in many ways, we can see some striking similarities between the two sons of David.

Many other Old Testament figures prefigure Jesus. Jesus is the new Adam, the new Moses, and the new Elijah. Like Isaac, Jesus was taken up a mountain to be offered as a sacrifice (Gn 22:2ff). He has the same name as Joshua, "Savior." Jesus was born in Bethlehem, as David was. Jesus was buried in the earth for three days, as Jonah was in the belly of a whale for three days.

Jesus is both the key to and the fulfillment of the Old Testament and of all history. "When the old covenant is read the veil remains unlifted; it is only in Christ that it is taken away" (2 Cor 3:14). Jesus, the Lamb Who was slain, is the only One Who can "open the scroll with the seven seals" and reveal the meaning of life (Rv 5:5). Without Him, we can do nothing (Jn 15:5).

Jesus is not just the only Way to know the meaning of life (see Jn 14:6); He is also the only Meaning to life. Jesus is the only Savior and Lord (Jude 4), and God Himself. Adore, obey, and love Jesus.

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 14, 2007

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