Marveling at Mephibosheth

“And the king said, Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God unto him? And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan (whose name means, “Gift from Jehovah”) hath yet a son, which is lame on his feet… Then king David sent, and fetched him… And David said, Mephibosheth (whose name means “ breathing out shame”).  And he answered, Behold thy servant!  And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely show thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake… and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually” (2 Samuel 9:3-7). 

We marvel indeed at Mephibosheth’s story,

Who came from the house the enemy, Saul.

The kindness of David reflects our Lord’s glory;

Mephibosheth’s shame thus exhibits us all.

In David’s example, we ponder our Savior:

Compassion is shown in Mephibosheth’s case.

For Jonathan’s sake, the king showed him favor,

As likewise for Jesus’ sake, God extends grace.

O Lord, You provide us these portraits so able

To show us the kindness You freely afford,

For we, like Mephibosheth, sit at Your table

With shame put away, as we sup with You, Lord!