As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. “My lord the king, please forgive me,” he pleaded. “Forget the terrible thing your servant did when you left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. I know how much I sinned. That is why I have come here today, the very first person in all Israel to greet my lord the king.” Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shimei should die, for he cursed the Lord’s anointed king!” “Who asked your opinion, you sons of Zeruiah!” David exclaimed. “Why have you become my adversary today? This is not a day for execution, for today I am once again the king of Israel!” Then, turning to Shimei, David vowed, “Your life will be spared.” [2 Samuel 19.18b-23]
Remember that Shimei said some pretty nasty things about David before this time - even threw rocks at him!
Abishai told David that Shimei deserved to die...
I recall a younger David who executed a man who said he killed king Saul...
For David to allow Shimei to live seems to be dishonoring his own role as king. It seems Abishai was right, as was Joab when he scolded the king because he was publicly mourning Absalom's death (who also was directly opposing the king - even though he was his father).
Sin just messes everything up, doesn't it? David seemed to have a better handle in things before giving in to his desires toward Bathsheba.
Father, help me - help us - to see how sin completely usurps Your good order.
No comments:
Post a Comment