David Reclaims the Throne

Text:2 Samuel 19:1-23

Reflection and Question: Once again, David has the wisdom to listen to Joab, who warns him about turning a victory into mourning because of the death of David’s son, Absalom. David meets the army and the tribes of Israel as he returns in procession to his throne, and even shows mercy to those who had sided with the rebellion. David also replaces Joab with Amasa, who was Absalom’s military commander — perhaps to shore up support within Absalom’s army… or perhaps to punish Joab for killing Absalom. Where have you seen this kind of blending of personal and political affairs?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Son of David, help us to learn from the example of Israel’s great king how to be Your children in this world. We know that the personal is also political. May this wisdom serve us as we seek to serve in our own neighborhoods. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).