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2 Samuel 19:31–39
And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim and went across the Jordan with the king, to escort him across the Jordan (v. 31).
Among those who come to witness David’s return from exile is Barzillai the Gileadite. Shimei and Mephibosheth, who stayed behind when David left Jerusalem, already have come to him to explain themselves and welcome him back, and David has extended his forgiveness to them. But Barzillai, an aged and wealthy man, met David at the height of his conflict with Absalom and boldly helped him when the issue was undecided. He comes to the Jordan now not to welcome David back to Jerusalem but to escort him home as the rightful monarch. His arrival gives David an opportunity to return the kindness Barzillai showed to him, so he invites Barzillai to come to Jerusalem, that he might extend his hospitality to this benefactor. He may even be inviting Barzillai to become his counselor.
Barzillai’s response is most gracious and very humble. First, he expresses his belief that he deserves no reward, for he regards his help to David as a duty performed. “Will the master thank that servant who only does what was his duty to do?” Matthew Henry asks in his commentary on 2 Samuel. “
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Barzillai lived in anonymity for 80 years until he had the opportunity to serve his king. His Daniel example teaches us that we are never too elderly to take a stand for our Lord. God calls young, middle-aged, and old alike to serve Him in the times and ways of His choosing. Cultivate your relationship to Christ so as to be ready when He calls.
For Further Study
- Eccl. 12:1
- Joel 2:28
- Titus 2:1–8
- 1 John 2:12–14