When Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David, he bowed down to pay him honor. David said, “Mephibosheth!” “At your service,” he replied. “Don’t be afraid,” David said to him, “for I will surely show kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table. (NIV)

Have you ever said the phrase “Kids these days!”? I don’t think it’s ever really used in a positive context. I find the older I get, the more tempted I am to say it when I see something in the younger generations of which I don’t approve. Recently, I was tempted to comment on the shortness of the homecoming dresses I was seeing in people’s photos. Now, I’m not sure my own homecoming dress was much longer, but there was some judgment in my heart. (Sorry, high schoolers, my apologies!) I am sure there were things my grandparents saw my generation do that made them question our sanity, respect for elders, upbringing, etc.  

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It seems common to look down our noses at people younger than us and feel superior because we’ve made better choices or think we understand the world better. But truth be told, it really bothers me when people complain about kids or teenagers in our society and yet are doing nothing to improve the situation. So many young people lack mentors, coaches, tutors, youth leaders and friendly neighbors to be a positive influence in their lives. If we want things to improve in our communities, we must be willing to build relationships with people of the next generation.

In our Bible passage today, I see three important things King David did to positively impact the next generation. He sought out a younger man who needed help, gave generously, and offered a seat at his table to be in continuous relationship. David also put aside the way things had been done in the past. I read it was a common practice in his day for the new king to kill all the kin of the old king so there would be no one to challenge him for the throne. It’s possible that is why Mephibosheth, the grandson of King Saul, responded the way he did when David came and found him. But David did not come to end Mephibosheth’s life but to bless him, to have a relationship with the son of his friend. His extension of grace stemmed from his love of Mephibosheth’s father, his beloved friend, Jonathan.  

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David also gave the land back to Mephibosheth, whose family had lost it. Land ownership was a very big deal in their time, and for David to return the land would have been of great benefit to Jonathan’s son. It would have likely impacted Mephibosheth’s family for generations to come.  David also extended a welcome to Mephibosheth to dine at his table for the rest of his life. He made a commitment not just for a one-time gift, but an ongoing relationship. All around, David chose feasting together over fear. For him, the honoring of the close friendship was put before old traditions, cultural practices, and guarding of resources.

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I think putting God first and then prioritizing relationships should also come before tradition or the way it’s always been done for us, as well. Many a church has died a slow death as some in the congregation refuse to let go of the old ways and embrace new things that appeal to younger generations. Drums in worship, anyone? Often, we need to put aside our control, our scarcity mindset, and our fear of bringing others to sit at the table with new ideas and preferences. There is strength in a multi-generational church, and in order to create one and create lasting impact for generations, we must be willing to find and build relationships with all kinds and ages of people. How can we use our resources to help younger believers be discipled in the Lord and step into their ministry callings? Are you looking to the future, in it for the long-haul to see the fruit of this Kingdom work we’re all doing together? How can you be like David in your care, hospitality, and generosity toward the generation to come?

God, please help us as we work to have an impact on the next generation. May we put aside the selfish things that hold us back from welcoming, sharing, and doing life with your people. Don’t let us cling so tightly to the way things have always been done that we miss what you have for us in new seasons of ministry and life. You call us to partner with those older and younger to build YOUR Kingdom. Give us David’s heart for those who could be easily written off or forgotten. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.