Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: 2 Samuel 19 and Psalm 95

After Absalom’s death the battle was won, but the kingdom had not yet been restored to David. In a triumph of diplomacy, David sent a message to the elders of Judah to assure them that he would appoint Amasa as the commander of his army. Amasa was the very man who had just led Absalom’s army against David (see 2 Samuel 17:25). This won over the elders and convinced them that David should be brought back as king.

The correctness of their decision is revealed by David’s acts of grace, mercy and kindness as he returns. Shimei repents of having cursed David and is granted the mercy for which he has begged. Mephibosheth, whom we were led to believe had refused to follow David out of Jerusalem into exile, pleads that this was not actually the case, and David places the best construction on the situation and extends gracious kindness to him.

By contrast to David’s selfless mercy and grace, the men of Israel (the tribes other than Judah) nursed a great offence at not being included in the joyful accompaniment of David across the Jordan and back into the Promised Land. This petty offence planted a seed which grew and grew until eventually the Lord’s Chosen People were permanently divided into two kingdoms (north and south) after Solomon’s death.

Heavenly Father, help me to nurture a heart of mercy and gracious kindness. Help me to put away offences and hold no grudges. Preserve me from the poison of bitterness, and allow me to experience the joy and freedom of living in forgiveness and generous love. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.