The books of Samuel have been filled with so many learning points which I can’t just keep to myself. Today, we will be looking at the story of King David and Mephibosheth (Jonathan’s son). This story started with a covenant between friends and ‘ended’ with a man on a mission to show the kindness of God. How I long to wake up every day of my life and think ‘how can I show the kindness of God today?’ No wonder David was called ‘a man after God’s own heart.’
2nd Samuel verse 9 starts with David asking if there is anyone left in the house of Saul (who, whilst alive, sought to kill David many times might I add) whom he could show kindness to for Jonathan’s sake – Saul’s son and David’s good friend. After a while, Mephibosheth (try saying that aloud 3 times) is found and is not only introduced by name but by condition (he was lame in both feet). David could have seen Mephibosheth as a rival because politically he was the rightful heir to the throne which David was currently inhabiting. But he didn’t (I guess this point is a message for another post). Instead, David changed Mephibosheth’s life around for the better, he gave him a position at his table and servants to work the land for him. Yet the chapter still ended with ‘and he was lame in both his feet.’
Although his position in life changed and his life was transformed for the better, his infirmity did not disappear. This can be seen as a picture of us and God. God our king seeks us out, even when we are hiding He desires to show us kindness and mercy. He shows us kindness for the sake of covenant. We are able to gain access to places that we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise because of this kindness and mercy. Most importantly we are able to gain access to The King. God’s goodness does not immediately take away our weaknesses, it does however transform how we are seen and how we see ourselves. It shifts our focus.
In this season we can also be David, seeking out those who are less fortunate in one way or another, those who are hidden and in need of the favour we so bountifully receive. Can our heart’s cry be, ‘to whom can I show the kindness of God today?’ It may not take away their issues and weaknesses but it will transform their perspective and possibly standing in life.
ElizabethFolakemi 