David has been called “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14).

Though he made many human mistakes, his response to the loss of his son — a son who had rebelled against him and who had literally led the country in an uprising against his father — is a glimpse into the divine.

God loves every one of His deeply flawed, rebellious, sinful children.

His heart is moved when His children disobey Him, but He is not willing that a single one of His sons or daughters should perish (2 Peter 3:9). Our sinning may tear us from God’s plan for our lives, but it never alters the depth of His love for us. He has done everything possible to make sure that no one who loves Him will be lost.

All of heaven rejoices when a single sinner repents (Luke 15:7).

Just as David would have gladly given his life to have saved his son, Jesus — who is love incarnate — did exactly that for you and for me.

Thanks to Jesus’ love and sacrifice, eternal life is readily available. All we have to do is accept it.