A Longing Heart
So Absalom fled and went to Geshur, and was there three years. And King David longed to go to Absalom. For he had been comforted concerning Amnon, because he was dead. - 2 Samuel 13:38-39
Notice, Absalom was separated for three long years from his father. He left behind his family, his property and the kingdom of Israel. David gradually accepted the fact that Amnon was dead but his heart longed to go see his son Absalom. Despite what Absalom had done his heart was still tender towards him. I am sure David hoped there would be a time when their relationship would be restored. It would greatly depend on how they would allow God to work in both their hearts.
Often due to sin, there are great divisions within families. It is hard to believe but some families can stay separated for years. Imagine how they must spend a great deal of time longing for their missed family member. They reminisce when they used to be close and long for the love they had between each other. These situations are not easily resolved. But when other people, who do not know the Lord, see us fighting with our families we have become a bad witness. How can they come to know God?
As Christians, we need to do all we can to set things right between our families. Matthew 5:9 says: blessed are the peacemakers... However, if those people in our family will not reconcile with us, we have done our part in the sight of God. All we can do is pray and leave the situation in the hands of the Lord. Let Him work on the hearts of all those involved. Hopefully in time, with true repentance and complete forgiveness, restoration can take place among everyone.
Whatever past hurts, quarrels or situations you have had within your family, know that God will comfort you. He alone can satisfy the longings of every human heart.
For He [God] satisfies the longing soul…
~Psalm 107:7~
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