2 Samuel 9
David showed kindness to another descendant of Saul, a son of Jonathan. He desired to do this to demonstrate that he had no ill-will towards Saul and his family. He did not possess the desire for vengeance which marked worldly kings who sought to exterminate their rivals and opponents. So David was inclined to be kind toward Mephibosheth, a man we have already encountered. He was severely disabled and lame in his feet. In addition he appeared to be emotionally handicapped as well for he called himself a “dead dog”. A person who sees himself as such must possess a very low opinion of himself and be very depressed.
People who are physically handicapped can often fall into despair and discouragement. So too can those who are socially unpopular, not physically attractive, non-athletic, or shy. David’s treatment of this man should teach us how we should treat those who are so unfortunate. He was kind and generous and refused to confirm the man in his poor self-image. When we meet with those who are handicapped, we too must encourage them. We must be generous, loving and kind. It would be wrong for us to ridicule them ourselves or allow others to ridicule or abuse them or take advantage of them in any way.
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