The story of Mephibosheth is a story of grace. Mephibosheth is the son of Saul and could have been seen as a dangerous enemy. In these times it was common for new monarchs to destroy their potential rivals. But David is not a king “such as all the other nations have” (1 Samuel 8:5). He was a king after God’s own heart. He reflected God’s character and here we see a different policy at work; a policy of grace. In this sense David, again, prefigures his greater descendent Jesus Christ who came initially, not to destroy his enemies but to be reconciled with them. As you read this story, see yourself in Mephibosheth and see David here as a type of Jesus. When Mephibosheth was summoned by David, he would have been terrified. He would have expected to be executed. He certainly would not have expected to be invited into the palace to be treated kindly. As a lame man he was automatically banned from entering the king’s palace (see 5:8). But this unworthy enemy is reconciled to the king and is given a permanent place at David’s table. Like Mephibosheth you are not worthy to enter God’s presence let alone to be treated with favour. But Jesus Christ has reconciled you to God and given you a place at his table. Will you accept his invitation?
Thank God for his grace to you.
Read 2 Samuel 9
