by Jackie Eames
David was a Godly king; he was the second king of Israel. He had been very close friends with Jonathan, Saul’s son. They were like blood brothers. When Jonathan died at the battle of Mount Gilboa along with his father and brothers, David was devastated.
In those days, it was common for the old king’s family to be killed once he was no longer on the throne. They would be wiped out.
Jonathan had a son called Mephibosheth. He was five years old when the news came of his father’s death. His nurse picked him up and fled with him, but while she was hurrying to escape, he fell and became lame.
David chooses to show Grace
‘And David said, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I may show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”’ 2 Samuel 9:1 AMP
Mephibosheth was brought to David and the boy fell face down in respect of the king. He must have been afraid and intimidated. ‘David said to him, ”Do not be afraid, for I will certainly show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan, and will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul; and you shall always eat at my table”’. 2 Samuel 9:7 AMP
Mephibosheth struggles to accept all David is saying, likening himself to a dead dog, putting himself down. However, king David keeps his word and Mephibosheth eats at David’s table as one of his sons. ‘So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he always ate at the king’s table. And he was lame in both feet’. 2 Samuel 9:13 AMP
David showed Grace and welcomed Mephibosheth to eat at his table. He took a place alongside David’s sons – a place of royalty.
What an honour and a privilege. He felt unworthy, however when he was seated, all his disabilities were under the table and unseen. He appeared the same as everyone else.
As life progresses, we can all accumulate scars / baggage of some kind that can hinder our walk with God, but our Father is faithful. He loves us and shows His incredible Grace to us.
However, we need to take advantage of all that God has for us, as Mephibosheth did. He accessed David’s banqueting table and feasted. We have the Word of God and the Power of the Holy Spirit, but we have to accept and access all God gives us.
We all have the opportunity to bless others, to show Grace to those around us.
Who could you bless / show Grace to today?
References:
Amplified Bible (AMP)