Introduction:
Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, is a significant figure in the narrative of King David's reign. His response to various events in his life, particularly his interactions with King David, provides insight into his character and the themes of loyalty, humility, and grace.

Background:
Mephibosheth was introduced in the biblical narrative as a young child who became crippled at the age of five when his nurse dropped him while fleeing after the news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths (2 Samuel 4:4). He lived in obscurity in Lo-debar until King David sought him out to show kindness for the sake of Jonathan, David's beloved friend (2 Samuel 9:1-13).

David's Kindness to Mephibosheth:
David's decision to show kindness to Mephibosheth was rooted in his covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:14-17). Upon being summoned to David's court, Mephibosheth's response was one of humility and reverence. He fell on his face and paid homage to David, referring to himself as "your servant" (2 Samuel 9:6). When David restored to him all the land of Saul and invited him to eat at the king's table continually, Mephibosheth expressed his unworthiness, saying, "What is your servant, that you should show regard for a dead dog like me?" (2 Samuel 9:8).

The Incident with Ziba:
During Absalom's rebellion, Mephibosheth's loyalty to David was called into question due to the actions of his servant Ziba. Ziba deceived David by claiming that Mephibosheth had stayed in Jerusalem hoping to reclaim his grandfather's throne (2 Samuel 16:1-4). In response, David granted Ziba all of Mephibosheth's possessions. However, upon David's return to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth clarified his position. He explained that Ziba had deceived him and that he had intended to accompany David but was unable due to his disability (2 Samuel 19:24-28). Mephibosheth's appearance, having not cared for his feet, trimmed his beard, or washed his clothes since David's departure, testified to his mourning and loyalty to the king.

Mephibosheth's Humility and Loyalty:
Mephibosheth's response to David upon his return was marked by humility and a lack of concern for material possessions. When David offered to divide the land between him and Ziba, Mephibosheth replied, "Let him take it all, since my lord the king has come safely to his own house" (2 Samuel 19:30). This response highlights Mephibosheth's genuine loyalty to David and his contentment with the king's safe return, rather than any material gain.

Themes and Significance:
Mephibosheth's responses throughout these narratives underscore themes of grace, humility, and loyalty. His life serves as a testament to the transformative power of covenantal love and kindness, as demonstrated by David's actions. Despite his physical limitations and the political turmoil surrounding him, Mephibosheth remained steadfast in his loyalty to David, reflecting a heart aligned with the values of the Davidic covenant.

Conclusion:
Mephibosheth's account is a poignant reminder of the grace extended to those who may seem insignificant or unworthy by worldly standards. His responses to the kindness and challenges he faced reveal a character marked by humility and faithfulness, offering a model of how to respond to grace with gratitude and loyalty.