The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 127: Kindness for the House of Saul (2026)
36 snips
May 7, 2026 A look at David’s surprising kindness to Saul’s family, especially Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth, and how mercy can honor past bonds. A snapshot of skilled, loyal warriors rallying to David in the wilderness. Reflection on Psalm 28’s cry for help and thanksgiving, and why covenant and anointing shaped David’s choices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
David's Radical Kindness To Saul's House
- David chooses mercy over political expediency by restoring Mephibosheth, Jonathan's lame son, to Saul's lands and inviting him to eat at the king's table always.
- Fr. Mike explains this honors Jonathan and the anointing of Saul, showing kindness rooted in covenantal loyalty rather than manipulation.
David's Followers Were Brave Wise And United
- 1 Chronicles 12 summarizes warriors who joined David: brave, ambidextrous fighters who also possessed wisdom and singleness of purpose.
- Fr. Mike notes these men included Benjaminites loyal to Saul, showing David valued legitimacy and unity.
Hebron Gathering Shows National Support For David
- The army that came to Hebron reflected national unity: many tribes intentionally came to make David king and celebrated together for three days.
- Fr. Mike highlights their preparation and communal provision as evidence of wholehearted support, not opportunism.