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2 Samuel 14: 32-33, Absalom said to Joab, “Look, I sent word to you and said, ‘Come here so I can send you to the king to ask, “Why have I come from Geshur? It would be better for me if I were still there!”’ Now then, I want to see the king’s face, and if I am guilty of anything, let him put me to death.” So Joab went to the king and told him this. Then the king summoned Absalom, and he came in and bowed down with his face to the ground before the king. And the king kissed Absalom.

Joab, David’s nephew, friend, and commander, knew David well enough to sense that he was grieving.  David was desperately missing Absalom but he wouldn’t admit it.  Joab devises a somewhat manipulative scheme to get David to admit his desire for Absalom to return to Jerusalem.  It works and David allows his son to return.

But while Absalom returns, that doesn’t mean they were all one big happy family.  In fact, David refuses to see Absalom.  Absalom is not invited to the royal dining table.  In fact, the lack of relationship with the palace certainly puts his succession to the throne in question.  Thus, Absalom insists upon seeing the king and Joab refuses to even consider the request.  Today’s focus verses are in response.   Why did he bother to pick up his life and move to Jerusalem if the king won’t even look him in the face?  Absalom insists - either the king would restore him as a son or he would be put to death.  He was willing to take the risk.

At last, David consents to see his estranged son.  And when they see each other, David kisses him.  This is a sign that David has fully accepted him back into the family.  David has reconciled with his son and Absalom has been forgiven.

Let’s pray…Lord, we are grateful for your amazing love.  Despite our many sins and the ways we pull away from you, you continually welcome us back.  Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your mercy.  Amen.