David did nothing to Absalom except grieve over the loss of one son and the alienation of another. Enmity existed now between father and son because Absalom was angry that David did nothing to punish Amnon for raping Tamar even though the law required payment of a fine and/or marriage, but not death. Maybe he felt guilty because his own personal sin was so much like Amnon’s. Maybe he felt that it was his fault and he lacked the spiritual fortitude to properly discipline any of his sons. Whatever the case, Absalom took it upon himself to punish his brother for the great outrage and violation of Tamar though he lacked the authority to do so. He slew his brother out of personal malice and hate not out of justice or respect for the Lord.
What is worse is that Absalom thought he had done nothing wrong. This is a common problem in today’s society. People do not want to admit to wrong doing even when it is blatant and when they have been caught red-handed. They prefer to lay blame on someone else, on the government or on their parents. Such people probably had parents who were uncaring, selfish and distant. The children of such parents grow up bitter and self-centered. Many grow up with no sense of morality or personal responsibility. Like Absalom they never admit to having done anything wrong and if they do, it is always someone else’s fault.
The sad thing is that no one can become a Christian without admitting to and confessing his or her own wickedness. In addition Christians must be humble enough to admit that they are wrong and ask for forgiveness regardless of the role others may have played in causing the sin. Reconciliation is impossible without such an admission of guilt and sorrow.
Comments