If you asked, almost everyone in the community would tell you they liked this young family man with four children. He was attractive, talented, friendly, and came from a prominent family. From all appearance, he was the model neighbor with no problems or issues in his life. Yet, under his external façade was a man with painful memories of his sister who was raped by a relative. And worst of all, the authorities had made no effort to prosecute. This issue eventually brought a rift between him and his father.
He longed to see his dad. His neighbor, a rancher, once worked for his father, and was his only hope of reconciliation. Now after five years of estrangement, he asked the friend of his father, if he would arrange a meeting. Yet, twice his request went without a response as his mental anguish continued. In a final act of despair, he devised a plan to get his neighbor’s attention and show just how desperate he was—he would burn his barley field.
Maybe you have figured out this is the story of Absalom, Joab, and King David (2 Sam 14). Burning Joab’s field did get his attention and as a result, he finally arranged a meeting between Absalom and his father David. Several weeks ago, a reader gave an insightful comment about how people are overwhelmed with difficulties, business, and stress. Even some believers are merely coping in life. I would add that people are also angry. People are hurting, needing answers, but it seems no one is listening. If this is true with Christians, how much more so is this true for those who do not have a relationship with Christ? With all the shootings and killings, taking of hostages, and physical confrontations, the nation keeps asking ‘why?’. What is causing this? Is it guns? Is it video games? Is it drugs?
I wonder if maybe some, certainly not all, are burning a field. They are hurting and searching for answers, but no one is listening. Evidence shows that several of the young people who went on a shooting spree were outcasts and often bullied by their peers. Without friends, without God in their life, they have no hope for the present nor hope for the future. So maybe, they “burned a field” in a twisted notion of getting noticed. Does this justify what they did? Absolutely not! Inflicting death and suffering on innocent victims is a hideous crime and sin.
These individuals, young and old, may appear to be normal model neighbors. However, like Absalom, there are hidden hurts and pains. Only a few may be aware of their unseen issues, as only Joab knew what was troubling Absalom. Yet, he did not respond to Absalom’s pleas. Any parent understands that our children at times, will do something they know is wrong, merely to get our attention. This is when we must stop and examine why are they seeking attention? Is it just human selfishness, which we all have, or is there a real need? It may be as simple as we have been too busy and they are craving our time, our affection, or answers to their questions. It also could be a serious need. If a child is having a temper tantrum banging a toy on the wall, taking away the toy is not the solution. As a parent, we try finding the real problem bringing about this action.
I am not equating a child’s temper tantrum with mass killings. However, there is an underlying principle here, that like a child or like Absalom, those perpetrating these horrible acts may be hurting and angry needing someone to listen. For us today, we cannot change what has happened in the past. But, we can help someone now who is looking for answers.
The big question is, how? Peter gives a good beginning point, always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you (1 Pet 3:15). First step, live a life that shows other people there is hope. If I go around looking hopeless, no one is going to look to me for answers. We also must be sensitive to people needing help. Look beyond a person’s facade; ask the Holy Spirit to lead you, and befriend someone who is overwhelmed with hurt and anger. Just showing a little concern may prevent them from being on the national news in the future.
I am currently in an unusual setting being an Adjunct Professor, teaching world religion at a secular university. I prayed before accepting this opportunity. I knew I could not make my class a pulpit. My assigned course is about all religions. Each time I prayed, the Holy Spirit placed this in my heart, “plant a seed.” The students are aware I am a Christian, I have made no secret of that and in every class, I let them see I have hope. Only God knows what these seeds will produce.
This Bible story applies to so many scenarios—to hurting Christians, to those who do not know Christ, or to those so overwhelmed with pain they are ready to strike the match and burn a field. Regardless of your situation, even if no one else is listening or answering your pleas for help, Jesus is and He is ready to help. He is the answer.
Sustaining Word for the Week:
Ask the LORD to fill you with His hope until it radiates like a light to others who may have a match in their hand ready to burn a field. Be prepared to tell them why you have hope.