Multiple times. Same heart.
David stays behind from battle as the civil war increases on the frontline. This battle happens to be with David’s own son which has to be hard to deal with for anyone. But David’s heart has been the same when dealing with those who oppose him each time.
“Then the king said to the Cushite, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” And the Cushite answered, “Let the enemies of my Lord the king, and all who rise up against you for evil, be as that young man!” The king was deeply moved and went up to the chamber over the gate and wept. And thus he said as he walked, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!”” 2 Sam 18:32-33
Everyone around David always believed these people were their enemies, and honestly we would as well. But in David’s heart he never viewed Saul, Abner, or Absalom as an enemy. He always sought reconciliation and was saddened by their death. Even in David’s faults he had a heart like the Lord.
What about you and me? No matter what others throw at you do you have a heart to see reconciliation? Are you happy for other’s downfall or saddened? This is also the heart of Jesus. We have an example to follow, but the choice is ours to make. Let’s set our hearts on reconciliation. This isn’t an option. This is our call as followers of Jesus!
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.