Easter is all about the Resurrection of Jesus….and a few other baskets of gifts!

2 Samuel 14

We are in the section of 2 Samuel that gives the narrative of David’s consequences for the sins related Bathsheba and Uriah. David’s sins were forgiven but “Thus says the Lord, ‘behold, I will raise up evil against you from your own household…”. There is no condemnation for his sins but there will be earthly consequences and they are directed toward his family.

Trouble

The trouble begins when David’s beautiful and wise daughter, Tamar, is violated and raped by her half-brother and son of David, Amnon. Tamar’s full brother, Absalom, discerned what happened and although he waited two years, he eventually sought revenge by having Amnon killed. Absalom fled into exile to avoid the consequences of his act which was judicially considered murder. So, David mourned the death of his one son Amnon and the exile of his other son, Absalom.

The wisdom of Joab

Joab, David’s right-hand man, convinces David to welcome Absalom back to Jerusalem after several years in exile. David wanted him back but feared the criticism he’d receive for pardoning Absalom. Nevertheless, Joab convinced him and Absalom was welcomed back. So, things seem better for David, but it is short-lived.

Look up

Life is tough. Consequences are bitter. Family relationships and expectations are bitter/sweet. Lord, remind us that we are citizens of heaven. Our time on earth is a roller coaster; intense but actually very brief. Fix our eyes on things above with the view that our true citizenship is in heaven. Fix our eyes on You! Amen