And David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan, and I will restore to you all the land of Saul your father, and you shall eat at my table always.”
David had let Jonathan's memory slip from his mind for years, but now he stirs himself to make good his promise. Good men do not wait to be asked; they hunt out occasions to do good, especially to those in want who will not cry for help. He sought not merely to answer a petition, but to seek them out first.
AI summary
Commenting on 2 Samuel 9:1-8
David reassures Mephibosheth because he had sworn to Jonathan that he would never cut off His kindness from his house; now he remembers that oath and will keep it. The restoration of Saul's lands and a permanent place at the king's table was no mere courtesy, it was the kindness of God Himself shown through David's unshaken friendship.
AI summary
The restoration of land was justice, what belonged by law to Saul's heir; the seat at David's table was kindness, the highest honor any subject could receive. His lameness made him fit for nothing else, yet David could do no more for him, a mercy beyond measure.
AI summary