2 Samuel 20

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2 Samuel 20:22, Then the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bikri and threw it to Joab. So he sounded the trumpet, and his men dispersed from the city, each returning to his home. And Joab went back to the king in Jerusalem.

There are times when I read these texts and they sound way too similar to our modern-day television dramas – murder, violence, betrayal, and sex.  And this is Scripture!  The Word of God certainly doesn’t gloss over all the sin and mess that humanity creates.  I was reminded of this once again as I read today’s chapter.

A man named Sheba who opposed David decided to rise up in rebellion.  David commanded Abishai, Amasa’s cousin, to pursue Sheba.  The troops head into Benjamite territory and are greeted by Amasa himself.  You may recall that Amasa was a supporter of Absalom but David decided to make him commander of his troops in an effort to build a bridge.  This would have deposed Joab, the current commander who had faithfully stood by David through the whole sordid mess.  Thus, Joab takes this opportunity to gruesomely stab and kill Amasa. 

But the story continues.  Amasa is swiftly moved to the side of the road and they continue to pursue Sheba and those in rebellion against the king.  They begin to besiege the town of Abel, where they believe that people are hiding Sheba.  A wise woman decides to intervene, explaining to Joab why he should not destroy the city.  She arranges to give him Sheba’s severed head if he leaves them alone.  And that’s exactly what she does; she literally throws Sheba’s head over the Joab and the troops left the city.

Oh my.  Thank goodness for the wise woman who stopped the bloodshed of an entire village.  I’m not sure what I think about the severed head but the war was stopped. 

What is it about humans throughout history that we continue to mistreat each other?  We continue to foster division and conflict.  Again, there is no mention of inquiring of the Lord.  It’s become a free for all.  Has David forgotten to whom he belongs?

Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, We belong to you.  Help us remember that.  Everything we do represents your Kingdom.  Keep us mindful of that.  May we be faithful ambassadors.  Help us see others through your eyes.  In Your Name, Amen.