CHAPLAIN’S CORNER: A Place at the King’s Table

The Bible tells a beautiful story of friendship and covenant love between David and Jonathan. Many of us are familiar with King David, but we sometimes forget the depth of his bond with Jonathan, the son of King Saul. These two men fought side by side as warriors. They protected one another, honored one another, and shared a deep love like that of brothers.

Enduring Kindness

Years after Jonathan’s death, we read in 2 Samuel 9 that King David asked a remarkable question: “Is there anyone still left of the house of Jonathan to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Samuel 9:1). Though Jonathan’s family had largely been lost, one man remained, Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son.

Mephibosheth had suffered an accident as a child that left him unable to walk. In the culture of that time, this would have often meant being overlooked or forgotten. But not by David. Because of his love for Jonathan, David sought him out, welcomed him, restored what had been lost to him, and gave him a permanent place at the king’s table.

Love in Action

The same kind of love compels the Jill’s House team to accept the call to serve families raising kids with intellectual disability. The abundant love of Jesus Christ is more than something we believe. It is a love that motivates us to service.

That love shapes the way we hope to welcome every child or adult, encourage every parent, and care for every family. Just as David made room at his table for Mephibosheth, we seek to make room in for those who long to be seen, known, and loved.

Love is powerful because it leads to action. Our prayer is that the love of Christ will be evident in every smile, every act of compassion, every conversation, and every moment of care experienced at Jill’s House.

The Chaplain’s Corner is a devotional series by Jill’s House Chaplain G.L. Usher, reflecting on the Christian faith and biblical truths that shape the heart of our ministry.