There is an interesting and illustrative event during the time of King David that I think is worthy of our consideration. (We’ll be in the book of II Samuel.) King David had defeated all his enemies and united Israel under him. “So David reigned over all Israel; and David administered judgment and justice to all his people.” (8:15)
Even with the responsibility of leading a great nation under God, the king remembered his dear friend, Jonathan. King Saul’s son had been David’s closest loyal companion. Jonathan died with his father on Mount Gilboa at the hand of the Philistines. And King David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (9:1)
After a search a son of Jonathan was found. His name was Mephibosheth. He was lame in both feet from the age of five after being dropped by his nurse. (4:4) When brought before the king a fearful Mephibosheth fell down prostrate. So David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and I will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.” (9:7)
Mephibosheth bowed down and explained that he was not worthy to eat at the king’s table. But David said Mephibosheth “shall eat at my table like one of the king’s sons.” (9:11)
This is a historical account of real people and real events which is how we’re to read and understand it. We certainly can appreciate David remembering Jonathan, exhibiting kindness to his friend’s son, and Mephibosheth’s vulnerability as well. But an illustration here popped out at me and you too perhaps.
Are we not Mephibosheth, lame and marred and unworthy to eat at the king’s table? Yet we are summoned and accepted not because of anything we have done, but because of who we belong to ─ Jonathan (Jesus Christ). Is not King David in the role of God the Father searching for us and extending His grace to us and restoring us when we accept his invitation and prostrate fall?
God is searching for you. Come to Jesus. It matters not that you’re scared and marred ─ if you belong to Jesus you are invited to eat continually and forever at the King’s Table.