Read 2 Samuel 13:21-14:33
In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the father illustrates our Heavenly Father’s ready forgiveness and restoration of His errant children. The parable also demonstrates what true repentance looks like when a prodigal returns.
Absalom was disillusioned with his father. For two years, King David had done nothing to address the disgrace brought on Absalom’s sister, Tamar. Absalom’s vindictive anger caused him to handle things much the way Cain had. He murdered his brother Amnon, and then fled into exile to escape punishment.
Perhaps David realized his own wrongful inaction by not dealing with Amnon’s treatment of Tamar. Instead of lashing out in anger toward Absalom, he longed to restore his wayward child. Joab used the woman from Tekoa to convince David he would be justified in bringing his son back from exile without the punishment of death. David humbly received Joab’s advice and allowed Absalom to return.
This prodigal, however, wasn’t about to grovel upon his return or accept a lowered status in the family. Although his punishment had been mitigated, he showed no repentance. He demanded an audience with the king.
Sadly this was no heartwarming scene. Unlike the prodigal, Absalom did not say, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21). Instead, the text does not record any words of repentance from Absalom.
Absalom didn’t acknowledge the shamefulness of the act he committed, didn’t forgive David for the shame brought upon Tamar, and didn’t desire reconciliation with his father in his heart. Time would reveal the consequences.
APPLY THE WORD
Has someone wronged you? How can you, with the help of God, affirm that person’s value even as you seek healing? Have you wronged someone? God’s heart is to forgive our sin and remove our shame to bring restoration to relationships. Will you humbly repent and accept His forgiveness, or will you insist on doing things your own way?
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