” So Joab told the king what Absalom had said. Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him.” 2 Samuel 14:33 NLT
“After this, Absalom bought a chariot and horses, and he hired fifty bodyguards to run ahead of him. 2 He got up early every morning and went out to the gate of the city. When people brought a case to the king for judgment, Absalom would ask where in Israel they were from, and they would tell him their tribe. 3 Then Absalom would say, “You’ve really got a strong case here! It’s too bad the king doesn’t have anyone to hear it. 4 I wish I were the judge. Then everyone could bring their cases to me for judgment, and I would give them justice!” 5 When people tried to bow before him, Absalom wouldn’t let them. Instead, he took them by the hand and kissed them. 6 Absalom did this with everyone who came to the king for judgment, and so he stole the hearts of all the people of Israel.” 2 Samuel 15:1-8 NLT
Lord God and Judge,
Absalom contrite before his father is welcomed back into the fold. Taking an interest in his people. Really? We would use the term two faced about Absalom I think. Still only looking out for himself even in the face of his family. He is still hungry for vengeance and angry with His family over the past? The rape of his sister Tamar by her half brother (2 Samuel 13:1-22) Some passages are hard to read father. Hurts in families run deep.
The people are fickle and do not see what Absalom is doing. Bragging about how good he would be to make David look a failure.
How we need Your Holy Spirit in these days. Gently opening our eyes to see what is real, what is true and what is genuine. Where people are working to their own selfish agenda. In all walks of life there is deception, whether just a twinge or a dangerous overload. Help us to see and avoid them, not be taken in by a false face. So we can see and think about and only be a part of what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. (Philippians 4:8-9) – And kind (Ephesians 4:32).
Keep us from any deception in our own lives, even a twinge.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Monday 5th May 2025
Holy words long preserved
for our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Words of life, words of hope
Give us strength, help us cope
In this world, wherever we roam
Ancient words will guide us home
Ancient words, ever true
Changing me and changing you
We have come with open hearts
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Holy words of our faith
Handed down to this age
Came to us through sacrifice
Oh, heed the faithful words of Christ
Holy words long preserved
for our walk in this world
They resound with God’s own heart
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Chorus . . . repeated
We have come with open hearts
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Oh, let the ancient words impart
Lyrics: Lynn DeShazo