DAVID HAD ABSALOM

I don't know how I so successfully manage to place Biblical 'heroes' on a pedestal - - but I do.  Specifically at this moment I am thinking of King David.  A couple of days ago in a 'discouraging' moment over a fragile relationship God reminded me that David had Absalom.  His own son tried to kill him, and took over David's rightful place as King.  What is truly remarkable is how David reacted.  He loved his son, in spite of Absalom's behavior.  That is agape love - - loving when doing so doesn't make sense - - when vindication would be warranted....   I want David's heart in difficult circumstances!

ANOTHER HEIR TO THE THRONE

A new 'ROYAL' has been born in England.  So much anticipation!  So much hoopla!  So many paparazzi!  A little prince, 3rd in line to the throne!

I couldn't help comparing it to another birth ca. 2007 years ago.  The Lord of lords and King of kings came into this world not as a conspicuous 'royal' but as a baby born to non-royals...born in a cave that housed animals, laid in a cattle manger 'cradle'.  However, no one has had a more prestigious birth announcement!  A myriad of angels appeared to a few lowly shepherds keeping watch over the flocks by night on the hillsides just outside Bethlehem, and announced the birth of the Messiah with unparalleled fanfare.  And (possibly as much as 2 years later) Astrologers from the East came bearing gifts to honor Him, for the stars proclaimed His birth!

My prayer is that the little prince grows up to know the King who is King of kings!