The Peace Child

“A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ: …David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife…” Matthew 1:1&6

Go ahead and pin on the scarlet letter. Known best for her fling with the king, Bathsheeba’s name is almost always associated with adultery. Her infamous rooftop bath inspired a royal summons and an immoral rendezvous. Whether she was an eager participant or simply too timid to refuse, we’re not sure. But we are certain Bathsheeba turned up pregnant, and King David turned on the cover-up. When the “Come home from war and visit your wife!” didn’t work on her soldier husband Uriah, David resorted to a battlefield murder, then quickly married the grieving widow.

Soon after their son was born, David was confronted with his sin. He openly confessed and was graciously forgiven, but the consequences were severe. The baby died, and Bathsheeba was devastated. The sin of adultery, the shame of the pregnancy, sadness for her husband, sorrow for her son. Her past was not pretty. It was horrible and hard. Filled with regret and remorse, she desperately wanted to turn back time…but she could not.

Bathsheeba couldn’t relive her past. Only God could redeem it for the future. And He did. He blessed her with another baby and sent him a special name, Jedidiah -- “loved by the Lord.” Although David had several other wives and many other sons, God purposely chose this little one to become the next king and be part of His holy heritage.

We know the baby as Solomon – David and Bathsheeba’s “peace” child. His birth was a comforting confirmation that God’s current grace does not depend on our previous performance. What used to be doesn’t determine what has to be. Our former follies and earlier errors come crashing into love at the manger and grace at the cross. And we are given peace.

Bathsheeba “had been Uriah’s wife.” David had been God’s special sovereign. Together they made a royal mess. But God took their history and made it His story. He gave them a baby who brought peace to their past and hope for their future.

He’s given us one too.


Time for a Little R&R

RECOGNIZE
We all have time times we want to turn back time. What “if onlys” and “I wish I hadn’ts” are heavy on your heart today?

RESPOND
Let God get you past your past. Openly confess your sin – Ask for His grace – Receive His peace.