1 February 2022

1 February 2022

The king was deeply moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept; and as he went, he said, ‘O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would that I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!’

From 2 Samuel 18:9-10,14,24-25,30-19:3, NRSV.

King David’s son Absalom had plotted to overthrow his father. David’s followers had assembled an army to go and fight the armies of Israel now commanded by Absalom. David was dissuaded by his men from participating in the battle, but before they left, David commanded that his son should not be killed. Joab, the captain of his army, disobeyed David’s orders and killed Absalom. Even though his son had rebelled against him, David was still distraught when he heard of his son’s death. Something of this loss must have affected his army as they returned “stealthily” rather than with the usual celebration that would have belonged to the victors.

    • Why do you suppose Joab disobeyed the king’s orders? 
    • Is the taking of another’s life ever justifiable?

Pray today for all who have had to endure the loss of a child.

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