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August 7, 2018

Transitions and Transformations

Kathryn Haueisen   |   Read 2 Samuel 18:31-33

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Lectionary Week
August 6–12, 2018
Scripture Overview

David’s family was a mess. Among his children there was rape, murder, and a plot to overthrow him by his son Absalom. Violence followed, and Second Samuel tells the story of Absalom’s death. Even though Absalom had betrayed him, David still loved his son with a parent’s never-ending love—the kind of love that God demonstrates perfectly for us, as David celebrates in Psalm 34. The author of Ephesians warns against acting out of anger, wrath, and malice (the very things that tore apart David’s family). We should instead forgive, as God in Christ has forgiven us. In John, Jesus restates that he is the path to God because he teaches God’s truth. Jesus will give his own life but then raise up those who believe in him.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33. When have you been called to “deal gently” with a loved one?
• Read Psalm 34:1-8. Reflect on a time when you were able to intimately “taste and see” God’s goodness in your life.
• Read Ephesians 4:25–5:2. Are your words and actions imitating Christ?
• Read John 6:35, 41-51. God comes to us in unexpected ways. Who have you discounted as a servant of God? How can you support their ministry?

Respond by posting a prayer .

2 Samuel 18:31-33

31 Then the Cushite arrived and said, “My master the king: Listen to this good news! The LORD has vindicated you this day against the power of all who rose up against you.” 32 The king said to the Cushite, “Is my boy Absalom okay?” The Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my master the king and all who rise up against you to hurt you end up like that young man.” 33 The king trembled. He went up to the room over the gate and cried. As he went, he said, “Oh, my son Absalom! Oh, my son! My son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you! Oh, Absalom, my son! My son!”

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

King David tries to protect his son on the battlefield, but his plans are thwarted in the heat of battle. When messengers tell King David about the defeat of his enemies, David can only focus on the death of his son. He cries out in anguish, wishing he’d been the...

Gracious Lord, help us to trust that your love for us is stronger than any wrong steps we take. Amen.


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