2 Samuel 19:15-40, 20:1-22
November 23, 2008


We all have plans for the big events in life; fire, tornado, college, unemployment, retirement, vacations, weddings, even chemical spills in Calhoun County. We are event oriented. But what about the BIGGEST EVENT GUARANTEED TO HAPPEN, the return of our Lord Jesus? Today in the return of David, we see the varied attitudes and responses to a returning King. Where do you stand to say “Hello King Jesus”?

1. Without any hope (20:1-2, 14-22) – Sheba was a stupid man. He placed his hope in his own strength & ability. He riled people against the true King, because he wanted his own kingdom. He failed, he ran, and he was beheaded at the hands of a mob lead by a ‘wise women’. What hope do you have? Where do you get your hope?

2. Worried, I’m not ready (15-23) – Shimei (‘Shim’ for short) was a rebel without a cause. He was a descendent of the failed & fallen Saul. Shim cursed David and threw stones at him & his followers while David seemed down and out (16:5-13). BUT NOW the King returns in strength and where do we find Shim? At the foot of the master scared to death & begging. Yet his plea was circumstantial, weak & late. His fate was sealed while the King was away (1 Kings 2:8-9, 36-46). What we do in the physical absence of Jesus has consequences for our spiritual eternity (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Are you worried about your Jesus review? How will Jesus receive you?

3. Waiting, please come soon (24-30) – Mephibosheth (‘Meph’) had the unmerited favor of the King. While he was a descendent of Saul and by the world standards a prospective enemy of David’s rule, he was granted grace, mercy & blessing (2 Sam. 9:1-13). Meph longed for the return of the King. He lived mindful day to day that the King would absolutely, 100% return. He knew not the day or time (Mt. 24:36), but he waited with great anticipation. Are you eagerly waiting with expectation? (Heb. 9:28)

4. Working with what I have until He comes (31-39) – Barzillai (‘Barz’) was a blessed man. He used his blessing to bless others for the benefit of the King (2 Sam. 17:27-29). No matter the consequence or world perspective, he kept a Kingdom view. Barz’s reward was a peace in death & blessing for generations to come (1 Kg 2:7). Are you working for the King while He’s away? Are you a good steward to ALL He has given you? (1 Cor. 4:2, Luke 12:35-46)