Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

David said, "Is there still anyone from Saul's family left that I can show kindness to because of Jonathan?" He wanted to reward his friend's loyalty.

A servant named Ziba was called before him. The king asked, "Are you Ziba?" "Yes, my lord," he replied.

The king inquired again, "Is there still anyone from Saul's family that I can show God's kindness to?" Ziba told him, "Jonathan has a son who is crippled in his feet."

The king asked, "Where is he?" and Ziba replied, "He is in the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, in Lodebar." David sent for Mephibosheth and had him brought from there.

When Mephibosheth arrived at David's presence, he bowed deeply in reverence. The king said, "Mephibosheth," and he replied, "Behold your servant!"

David reassured him, saying, "Do not be afraid; I will show you kindness because of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to Saul your father, and you shall eat bread at my table continually."

Mephibosheth was overwhelmed with gratitude, responding, "What is your servant that you should look upon one such as I, a dead man?" David called for Ziba, his loyal servant.

The king told Ziba, "I have given to your master's son all that belonged to Saul and his household. You and your sons and servants will work the land to provide food for him, and you will bring in the harvest." Ziba promised, "According to all that my lord the king has commanded his servant, so shall I do."

The king declared, "He will eat at my table as one of the king's sons. Mephibosheth had a young son named Micha, and all who lived in Ziba's household served him.

Mephibosheth dwelled in Jerusalem, continually eating at the king's table despite being lame on both his feet.