September 10 – 2 Samuel 9:1-8

September 10 – 2 Samuel 9:1-8

 

[1] And David said, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” [2] Now there was a servant of the house of Saul whose name was Ziba, and they called him to David. And the king said to him, “Are you Ziba?” And he said, “I am your servant.” [3] And the king said, “Is there not still someone of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him?” Ziba said to the king, “There is still a son of Jonathan; he is crippled in his feet.” [4] The king said to him, “Where is he?” And Ziba said to the king, “He is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar.” [5] Then King David sent and brought him from the house of Machir the son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar. [6] And Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan, son of Saul, came to David and fell on his face and paid homage. And David said, “Mephibosheth!” And he answered, “Behold, I am your servant.” [7] And David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan, and I will restore to you all the land of Saul your father, and you shall eat at my table always.” [8] And he paid homage and said, “What is your servant, that you should show regard for a dead dog such as I?”

 

David’s inquiry to whether any one was left in the house of Saul led to the discovery of Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, who was crippled. When called to appear before David, Mephibosheth fell to his knees paying great respect and honor to David.  It’s thought that Mephiboheth had little confidence or self-esteem as he refers to himself as a dead dog.  David did not see the young man in the eyes of the world, but rather through the eyes of Jesus showing love, loyality and appreciation for his dear friend, Jonathon’s, son.  David invites Mephibosheth to his table to become part of his family.  For years Saul had sought to harm/kill David.  It would have been easy for David to simply forget about Jonathan’s family or kill his son in revenge of what Saul did.  Yet, David honored the covenant he had made between Jonathan and God and extended a hand of friendship, love, kindness and care.  When others wrong you, what is your response?  These verses show that David did not seek revenge but acted in forgiveness.  Sometimes this is easier said than done.  In fact, is it even possible without God?  Pray today that with God you can find forgiveness for someone who’s betrayed or wronged you.