Reading for April 28th

 Read 2 Samuel 3.20-39. In verses 21-23: The story repeats that Abner left David in peace as a way of emphasizing David's innocence in Abner's death. Joab's return after Abner had left (v. 22) suggests that David had sent Joab away in order to avoid a confrontation. In verse 25: Comings and goings are military maneuvers. Joab is accusing Abner of spying. In verse 27: Joab kills Abner in revenge for Abner's killing Asahel (2.18-23). The story hints that Joab may have acted to preserve his place as army commander. In verse 29: David curses Joab's descendants with illness because of his act. A spindle may also mean a crutch. In verse 30: Abishai is not mentioned in the story but may have been involved with Joab in planning Abner's murder. In verse 31: Sackcloth was an unknown kind of material worn by mourners. In verse 33; Fool is a translation of the Hebrew "nabal" and is reminiscent of the story in 1 Sam 25. Comments or Questions..