2 Samuel 18-20

King David is restored as King of Israel in 2 Samuel 18-20.  He is devastated by the death of his son, Absalom, and the twelve tribes of Israel are arguing about "who" should do "what" next.  But after his period of mourning, David returns to Jerusalem and begins to regain control of the situation in the kingdom.  Joab has more blood on his hands (in addition to Abner and Absalom) as he murders his brother Amasa.  And there's another troublemaker in the picture named Sheba who attempts a rebellion against King David.  The next thing we know, a wise woman throws Sheba's head over the wall of the city of Abel Beth Maakah to Joab.  At least one crisis is averted.    

We've been following King David's reign over Israel since his big mistake with Bathsheba.  We know David's sin has been forgiven, but the hard consequences have affected many lives.  I think David is well aware of that.

When David goes to the city gate to sit, it's a big deal.  King David, the chosen man of God, is back.  In light of God's forgiveness and blessings in his own life, David chooses to be a blessing to others in spite of their imperfections.  

Remember Shimei, the man who cursed David as he was fleeing from the palace?  He begs David for forgiveness, and David spares his life.

When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell prostrate before the king 19 and said to him, “May my lord not hold me guilty. Do not remember how your servant did wrong on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. 20 For I your servant know that I have sinned, but today I have come here as the first from the tribes of Joseph to come down and meet my lord the king.”

21 Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shouldn’t Shimei be put to death for this? He cursed the Lord’s anointed.”

22 David replied, “What does this have to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? What right do you have to interfere? Should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Don’t I know that today I am king over Israel?” 23 So the king said to Shimei, “You shall not die.” And the king promised him on oath.

2 Samuel 19:18-23

And, David's mercy and grace keeps flowing.

Remember Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson, and his steward Ziba?  Although the truth about their disagreement is unclear, we know there's dishonesty involved.  Instead of punishing them, David graciously divides their land and be on their way.

David also rewards Barzillai, an already wealthy eighty year old man who took care of David while Absalom was in control of the palace.

God's eternal forgiveness that we have through Jesus is powerful.  Not only is it life saving for our own lives, God means for it to change the way we relate to those around us and be a blessing to them as well.

God's redeeming grace is a beautiful thing, and it's meant to be contagious!

A prayer for today- 

Dear merciful and loving God,

I thank You for Your Son, Jesus, who blesses me with eternal life.  Help me to always remember Your mercy and grace that is at work in me.  

I pray that You will continue to inspire me with thanksgiving and a deep desire to share Your mercy and grace with those that need it the most.

I have ____________ on my mind today.  Help me be a blessing in his/her/their life/lives.

In the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit I pray,

Amen

Grace and peace of Christ,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.