In this video listen to 2 Samuel Chapter 14, read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.

In 2 Samuel Chapter 14 Absalom would have been third in line to the throne, but after murdering Ammon he goes into exile in Geshur. Joab for unknown reason initiates a process to restore Absalom. It takes five years in two stages to bring this about. Absalom’s banishment in Geshur for three years, and then isolation at home for another two seems cruel to us, but was somewhat merciful punishment for the times.

David loved his son, but probably felt he had no choice. The law required Absalom to be killed, just as it required Amnon to die. But David seems to be following the example of what God did to Cain, allowing him to live for killing his brother, but sending him away. Eventually David and Absalom are reconciled, but it is not what it  ...