2 Samuel 9:4

2 Samuel 9:4 is a pivotal verse in the story of David's kindness to Mephibosheth, the son of his beloved friend Jonathan. It reveals the forgotten location of Jonathan's surviving heir, setting the stage for David's remarkable act of grace.

Context

Following his ascension to the throne and the consolidation of his kingdom, King David remembered his solemn covenant with Jonathan, the son of King Saul. David had sworn to Jonathan that he would show kindness not only to him during his lifetime but also to his descendants (see 1 Samuel 20:14-17). In 2 Samuel 9:1, David asks, "Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake?" Ziba, a former servant of Saul's house, informs David about Mephibosheth, who was lame in both his feet (2 Samuel 4:4) and had been living in obscurity.

This verse specifically answers David's query about Mephibosheth's whereabouts. Ziba reveals he is "in the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, in Lodebar." Lodebar was likely a remote and desolate place, perhaps east of the Jordan River, signifying a place of barrenness or forgottenness.

Key Themes

• Covenant Faithfulness: David's inquiry and subsequent action demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the covenant he made with Jonathan. This highlights the importance of keeping one's word, even when it involves former adversaries or their descendants.
• Grace and Kindness: Instead of seeking to eliminate potential threats from the former ruling house, David actively sought to show "kindness" (Hebrew: chesed, often translated as loving-kindness or steadfast love). This was an act of pure grace, unmerited by Mephibosheth, who was vulnerable and had no claim on the king.
• Redemption from Obscurity: Mephibosheth, a disabled man living in a forgotten place called Lodebar, is brought into the king's presence and ultimately granted a place at the king's table (2 Samuel 9:7). This move from desolation to dignity is a powerful picture.

Linguistic Insight

The name Lodebar (לֹא דְבָר - Lo Debar) is significant. It can be interpreted as "no pasture" or "no word," suggesting a place that is barren, desolate, or without significance. Its very name underscores the forgotten and lowly state from which Mephibosheth was called by the king's grace.

Practical Application

The story of Mephibosheth and David's kindness serves as a profound illustration of God's grace towards humanity. Just as Mephibosheth was found in a place of "no pasture" and brought into the king's presence, so too does God seek out those who are spiritually lost, broken, or living in obscurity. Through His unmerited favor, He brings us into His kingdom and grants us a place at His table. This narrative encourages believers to reflect God's kindness in their own lives, seeking out and showing compassion to the vulnerable and forgotten, just as David sought out Mephibosheth for Jonathan's sake.