04/27/22 Longing for Return

READING: 2 Samuel 12:26-31, 1 Chronicles 20:2-3, 2 Samuel 13:1–14:33    

Today’s reading is filled with the tragedy of rape and murder as Nathan’s prophecy about David’s future was coming true: “Now therefore, the sword will never leave your house because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hethite to be your own wife” (2 Sam 12:10). David’s son Amnon raped his sister Tamar, and Absalom then orchestrated events that led to the murder of Amnon. 

David’s emotions in all these events were obvious. He was furious over the rape, mourned Amnon’s death every day for some time, and later longed to see his son, Absalom, after he fled because of his role in Amnon’s death. For three years, Absalom lived in exile—but David eventually ended his grief over Amnon and instead deeply desired to see his son, Absalom. Various versions of the Bible capture his emotions this way:

  • “King David longed to go to Absalom, for David had finished grieving over Amnon’s death.” (2 Sam 13:39, CSB)
  • “And the spirit of the king  longed to go out to Absalom, because he was comforted about Amnon, since he was dead.” (ESV)
  • The heart of King David longed to go out to Absalom; for he was comforted concerning Amnon, since he was dead.” (NAS)
  • “And King David, now reconciled to Amnon’s death, longed to be reunited with his son Absalom.” (NLT)

I cannot imagine what it feels like to long for your son’s return when he is exile, but I do know the anguish of longing to see someone return to God and His gospel. As in the story of the prodigal son, you wait at the end of the driveway for that loved one to return. In the end, you pray and wait . . . and trust. 

PERSONAL REFLECTION: Is there someone in your life you long to see?       

TODAY’S PRAYER: “God, I pray for _________, who seems to be in exile today.” 

TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Samuel 15:1-17:14 

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