David crossed that gloomy brook while fleeing with his mourning company from his traitorous son. Even the man after God's own heart wasn't free from trouble; his life was full of it. He was both the Lord's Anointed and the Lord's Afflicted. Why should we expect to escape hardships?

At sorrow's gates, the noblest among us have waited, bearing ashes on their heads. Why should we complain as if something strange happened? The King of kings himself had no easier path. He crossed the filthy ditch of Kidron, filled with Jerusalem's refuse. God had one Son without sin, but no child without discipline.

We find great joy in knowing that Jesus was tempted in every way as we are. What's our Kidron this morning? A faithless friend, a sad loss, a slanderous remark, or a dark fear? The King has faced them all.

Is it pain, poverty, persecution, or rejection? Jesus has crossed each of these Kidrons before us. "In all our afflictions he was afflicted." We must stop thinking our trials are unique, for our Head knows the grief we think is ours alone. Every citizen of Zion belongs to the Honourable Company of Mourners, led by Prince Immanuel.

Despite David's humiliation, he returned triumphantly to his city. David's Lord arose victorious from the grave. Let us find courage, for we too shall prevail. We will draw joyfully from the wells of salvation, though for now we pass by the streams of sin and sorrow. Courage, soldiers of the Cross. The King himself triumphed after crossing Kidron, and so will you.