Go to Meet the King

Daily Reading: 2 Samuel 19

Scripture Focus: Then the king returned and came to the Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king.(2 Samuel 19.15)

Devotional Thought: After the death of Absalom, who had usurped the throne, King David returned to Jerusalem. The people went out to meet him and to welcome him. Three men stand out:

· Shimei had previously sinned against David and was first to ask for his forgiveness. “My lord the king, please forgive me,” he pleaded. His repentance was sincere. This is what we all must do in coming to the King – acknowledge our sin, repent and humbly seek forgiveness. Our sin demands a penalty, but Jesus paid the price for us and we are spared.

· Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul came down to meet the king. He was the son of David’s friend, Jonathan, and was actually next in line for the throne of Saul. He was so humble. In verse 28 we read, “All my relatives and I could expect only death from you, my lord, but instead you have honored me by allowing me to eat at your own table! What more can I ask?” David showed unique kindness to Mephibosheth. So it is with us.

· Barzillai was another who came to welcome David and escort him across the Jordan. Barzillai was the ultimate old-timer. David invited him to come and live with him in Jerusalem. But, Barzillai replied that he was too old. He felt useless. Do we sometimes feel that way because we are getting too old? We need not feel that way! There is always opportunity for service, no matter our age.

We shall go to meet the King someday. I look forward to that day! Do you?

Pastor Dale

Prayer: Jesus, my heart leaps within me when I think of your return. Help us to be ready, O Lord, when you split the eastern sky and come to take us home! Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 105.16-22

16 When he summoned a famine on the land

and broke all supply of bread,

17 he had sent a man ahead of them,

Joseph, who was sold as a slave.

18 His feet were hurt with fetters;

his neck was put in a collar of iron;

19 until what he had said came to pass,

the word of the Lord tested him.

20 The king sent and released him;

the ruler of the peoples set him free;

21 he made him lord of his house

and ruler of all his possessions,

22 to bind his princes at his pleasure

and to teach his elders wisdom.