Absalom is killed, the kingdom was not yet restored, but David begins his return to Jerusalem in a series of “meeting scenes”. David realises that he can never rule effectively in Jerusalem without Judah’s support. However, he did not force his way through, and instead sent messages to the elders of Judah, and the hearts of all the men of Judah were swayed. Thus begin three meeting scenes, which were David’s offers to those who had rejected him for Absalom to agree to bring him back as King.

David met Shimei, who was anxious to make amends for his severe cursing of David. David forgave him because he was secure, knowing that God gave him the throne. David met Mephibosheth, who argued fervently for his innocence against the slander of Ziba. David showed understanding to him, and Mephibosheth was content to let Ziba have all the property if he could only know that David may reign in peace. David met the aged Barzillai, who had been loyal to David. David offered him the honour of living with the king in Jerusalem, but Barzillai respectfully declined it, as he had not served for the sake of a reward.

David showed forgiveness, restoration, generosity in each of these meetings, yet it was not the end of difficulties for David. The final verses in this chapter illustrated the divide between Judah and the northern tribes. The northern tribes felt that the tribe of Judah had been given the most honour through David’s return to kingship. They felt slighted as they have more tribes represented in David’s leadership. However, the people of Judah felt that they have a closer kinship to David. Without knowing specifically what the people of Judah said in response, the stage is set for a division that would lead to another open conflict.

As a king, David set out in resolving conflicts as he assumed kingship. We can learn from his actions of forgiveness, restoration, and generosity. However, we, too, have much to learn from the conflict between Judah and the northern tribes. The conflicts between the parties continued because there was no reconciliation. They had just existed in misunderstanding of one another, and had not sought to reconcile. Jesus’ ministry is a ministry of reconciliation. We were to be reconciled with one another, and to be reconciled with God. The commandment of loving God and loving men is a reminder of that. Is there anyone whom you have hurt or offended, or is there anyone who has hurt your or offended you, whom you need to reconcile with? Take time to pray for the person, and for Jesus to help you restore the relationship.

Prayer : Dear God, thank you for showing me the actions of forgiveness, restoration, and generosity through David. Help me Lord, to reconcile with those whom I have hurt or offended, or whom has hurt me. Restore our relationships, as Lord you desire. In Jesus’ name, Amen.