Stay Engaged
Stay Engaged
Absalom resided in Jerusalem two years but never saw the king. (2 Sam. 14:28)
Relational Breakdown
After David’s sin with Bathsheba, he experienced family problems of all kinds. Especially heartbreaking was the situation with his son Absalom. After committing a serious crime, the young man fled the country for three years (see 2 Sam. 13:38). Eventually David granted mercy to Absalom and permitted his son to come home. However, David refused to see his son (14:24). They went five years with no face-to-face communication. No wonder Absalom would later commit the heinous sins of rebellion and adultery. When he needed love, companionship, and time with his father, he was met with only separation and silence.
Repeating Mistakes
In his day Charles Lindbergh, the great aviator, was one of the most admired men on earth. His travels took him around the world several times each year, but he seldom landed at home. His wife came to find his presence an intrusion and his absence an insult. Without a relationship with their father, Lindbergh’s six children became dispirited and confused. One son remained alienated from his father right up to Lindbergh’s death. Like all children, Lindbergh’s kids definitely needed time with their father.
Men need to be constantly investing in their family relationships. This means devoting time and effort to maintaining good communication. As we’ve seen, the alternative can be disastrous.
Bottom Line
There is no substitute for an attentive and affectionate husband and father.