Kissed by the King

Today’s key verse is taken from the daily Bible reading plan at BibleInAYearOnline.com

So Joab told the king what Absalom had said. Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him. - 2 Samuel 14:33 (NLT)

Family drama. We all know it. Tension, misunderstandings, hurt feelings, it can leave us feeling like there's no way back to peace. In the story of David and his son Absalom, we see a deeply fractured relationship that takes years to repair. Absalom, driven by revenge after his sister was harmed, fled from his father’s presence and stayed away, unwilling to return. David, heartbroken and angry, couldn’t bring himself to fully reconcile with his son.

But God, in His wisdom, used Joab to intervene, eventually bringing Absalom back to the king. And when that moment came, when Absalom bowed before his father, David didn’t just forgive him. He kissed him. He extended grace, mercy, and love, despite all that had happened. In that kiss, Absalom was restored, welcomed back into the king’s favor.

Isn’t it amazing to think that God does the same for us? Despite our brokenness, our mistakes, and our wandering hearts, Jesus intercedes for us. Because of His sacrifice, we are welcomed into God's presence, kissed by the King of Kings. This isn't just a one-time event, it’s a daily experience. Every time we come to Him with a heart full of regret or guilt, Jesus is there to intercede and to restore us.

We don’t have to earn the King’s love. It’s freely given, and all we have to do is accept it.

Reflection Question: How does it change your perspective to know that, through Jesus, you are kissed by the King of Kings with love and grace every day?

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your endless grace and mercy. Thank You for sending Jesus to intercede on my behalf. Help me to remember that no matter how far I’ve gone or how broken I feel, I am always welcomed into Your love. I receive Your grace today, knowing that I am kissed by the King. In Jesus Name, Amen.