Apr
21
Written by:
Route 365
4/21/2010 7:30 AM
written by Jessie Pepper
In this reading we find Abner, direct enemy of David’s kingdom, deciding to make peace with David. He sends a messenger to David announcing an agreement to hand over Israel. David only agrees to see Abner if he presents him with Michal, a wife that was taken away from him. Abner agrees and brings David what he wants. Abner’s intention seems to be directed by God’s will. When David throws a feast in celebration of what Abner has done, this shows David’s love through God. Without God in David’s heart, any ruling king would have eliminated a long-time enemy in their presence.
I think this reading is important in our lives because it speaks of making peace, and more importantly, loving your enemy. What stands out to me is that, if we are acting under God’s will, there should be no enemies in our lives. This is a difficult thing to grasp because we don’t always act under God’s will. We seem to live under our self-lordship and if one does not do what is our intention, they are an enemy. An enemy may not always be someone we battle for land or rights, but someone that may not always agree with what we want. Sometimes it’s someone who frustrates us, or someone who tries to control us. I think if we look at what a significant step both Abner and David took to make peace with what is God’s will, we should be able to overcome the struggles we have with our enemies. I think it starts with asking God to guide us through the peacemaking process and to fill our hearts with His love. Ultimately, if we are filled with God’s love, we make no enemies because the love spreads to others.
My challenge to you would be to make peace with one of your enemies and show them what God’s love is all about.
God Bless,
Jessie
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