Apr
22
Written by:
Route 365
4/22/2010 6:39 AM
written by Jessie Pepper
In this reading, Joab discovers that David and Abner have come to a resolution. Joab is furious that David had sent Abner away, and felt that David should have sent judgment upon Abner for his past battles. Joab ultimately tracks down Abner and kills him in revenge for his brother’s death.
How many of you have hatred or dislike for someone? I think most of us fall into this category. I know for me it is easy to dislike someone or, when someone has wronged me, to wish the same wrong done to them. I think it is almost human nature to have these feelings. I cannot personally relate to having someone close to me being murdered and to know who the murderer is. That does not matter, though. The moral is the same: do not seek revenge on your enemies, but love them no matter what the cost is. I have been recently on new faith journey with God and I have come to a conclusion that the underlining factor is love. We should be reflecting the perfect love that God has for us towards others. Here in this reading we find that Joab is filled with hatred and finally takes judgment into his own hands. In contrast to that, we see that King David mourns Abner’s death, which is showing his love for him. Not that long before, Abner was an extreme enemy of David’s empire.
When I run into difficult situations, I try to ask God for guidance and to help fill my heart with love. Jesus says, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5.44). This has helped me dramatically in not lashing out at others. But that does not mean I do not have the occasional negative thought!
God Bless,
Jessie
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